Based on the 1928 book by Mário de Andrade, the modern-day parable follows the misadventures of a black man (Grande Otelo) who is miraculously born to an old woman (Paulo José), who is supposed to be of the indigenous peoples of Brasil, in the jungles of the Amazon Rainforest. Though born fully-grown, he has the heart of a playful child. After the death of his mother, he comes face to face with a Spring (season) that turns him white (Paulo José). With that change, he and his two brothers move to Rio de Janeiro, but are interrogated by street Terrorism upon their arrival.