The film tells the story of Ramón Antonio Brizuela, who since childhood has to deal with rampant violence and the drugs, sex and petty thievery of a Caracas slum. Starting with delinquency, Ramón moves on to serious gang activity and robberies. He grows into a tough, self-confident young man who is hardened to violence. His views change when his fiancée's brother is killed in a robbery.

Ramon Antonio Brizuela is a criminal whose life passes between rounds, parties and showdowns. Recognized by a witness during an assault, he is taken to jail where he becomes aware of the unfair and corrupt judicial system.

Ignacio is known as El Iluminado de la Esmeralda (The Enlightened One of the Emerald) for his healing powers. Urged by the eviction of the house where he lives, he decides to charge for his services with an illusionist. What he ends up with is being mistreated and taken advantage of by others, even ending up in jail. After regaining his freedom, he goes mad.