The film's narrative unfolds through four distinct vignettes, each illustrating different facets of life in pre-revolutionary Cuba. The first story centers on Maria, a nightclub worker in Havana who longs for a better life but is trapped in a cycle of exploitation. Her encounters with American tourists highlight the socio-economic disparities and moral decay prevalent in her surroundings. The second vignette follows Pedro, an elderly farmer who sees his idyllic life shattered when the government seizes his land to build a luxury hotel. Driven to desperation, Pedro decides to take drastic measures to reclaim his livelihood.

The third segment shifts focus to Enrique, a university student in Havana involved in the burgeoning revolutionary movement. His story captures the growing unrest and fervor among the youth, as they rally against the oppressive regime. The final vignette depicts Mariano, a peasant who joins the guerrilla fighters after witnessing the brutal suppression of his village. Through these interconnected stories, the film paints a vivid picture of the social and political turmoil that ultimately leads to the Cuban revolution.