In turn-of-the-century Budapest, teenage gang the Paul Street Boys have been skirmishing with their enemies, the Red Shirts, over a vacant lot. When the Red Shirts decide to drive the Paul Street Boys out, they appoint small, sick Pvt. Nemescek (Anthony Kemp) to spy on their opponents. Unfortunately, Nemescek is discovered on enemy ground and thrown into a pond, contracting a serious case of pneumonia. Despite his illness, the two gangs prepare to fight.