A notorious and clever thief known as Aldo Vanucci, nicknamed "The Fox," escapes from an Italian prison with a grand plan to smuggle gold stolen by an international gang. Posing as an eccentric film director, he arrives in a small seaside village under the guise of making an art film. His charm helps him enlist the unsuspecting locals, including his star-struck sister Gina, who dreams of becoming a movie star. Vanucci coerces aging Hollywood star Tony Powell into joining the production, promising a major comeback role, thus adding credibility to his faux film.

Vanucci's elaborate scheme involves using the cover of the film shoot to transport the stolen gold. As preparations for the supposed movie continue, chaos ensues in the quaint village, with the enthusiastic townspeople eagerly participating in the fake production, oblivious to its real intent. Vanucci juggles multiple roles, directing his actors while managing the heist logistics. The situation grows increasingly tangled as suspicions arise and complications threaten to derail the plan. The blend of deception, comedy, and farce unfolds amidst Vanucci's constant improvisation to stay one step ahead of the authorities and rivals.