The life of Fernando Farinha, from kid where he ran away to school - to sing the fado, and the condescension of the parents, although aspiring to have an "honest" job.

A sentimental comedy about... toothpicks. The hero manufactures and exchanges toothpicks for countless goods because he ignores the value of money. "The Millionaire" is his nickname. He runs around the city, happy, meeting friends: Carlitos, the newsboy, and Celeste, the lemon seller. His innocent life contrasts with the city, full of traps and dangers.

Jorge, a successful engineer and employee of a ministry and Luísa, a romantic and dreamy girl, star as the typical bourgeois couple of the Lisbon society of the 19th century.

António, a factory worker of immense musical talent, is discovered by a business man who launches him as a singer. Nevertheless, this changes the man's life for better and for worst.