In this fictionalized account of
Rudolf Ivanovich Abel's exploits in the West, Abel himself introduces the film. In the film, the opening with the Soviet agent being followed in subway is referenced in Bridge of Spies, the magnetic coin used for messaging is shown as well, the lawyer who defends Abel is also presented and eventually there is a scene of prisoner exchange at Glienicke Bridge. However, besides the fictional Abel mission, there are other major differences between the two films. For example, in Myortvoyy sezon, fictionalized Abel is greeted with hugs while in Bridge of Spies he says that it will be a good sign if he gets greeted with hugs after the exchange but instead he is just shown the backseat of a car.