Old and conservative industrialist goes to São Paulo to visit his children, who are locally in charge of his business. When he finds out they're having more fun than work, at first he is shocked, but gradually starts to join in.

João Grilo is a backwoodsman who tries to get along at the expense of the powerful in the city, who pretend to be respectful of morals and good customs and hide their sins. But when a band of cangaceiros attacks the small town, everyone has to settle accounts with God and the Devil.