1905, the cinematograph, still a misterious invention, reaches Palermo bringing confusion to the common people to whom it appears some devilish trick. Federico is an unwilling medicine student, but a curious and eager would-be film director. When he meets Gennarino Pecoraro, owner of the local theatre, he sees an opportunity to change his own life. Strongly opposed by his mother, Federico accepts the task to direct a film. It has to satisfy Don Gennarino’s wishes to see a naked beauty on the screen, as well as Elena, the God-abiding Gennarino’s sister, who wants the film to be an edifying piece. The Biblical story of Chaste Suzanne seems to be the perfect choice. But who shall impersonate Suzanne? Refined Beatrice, a journalist and writer, who came to live on the island, she seems perfect until… Federico has a glimpse of Marianna, bathing in the nude, unaware of being seen.Marianna - non other than Beatrice’s washerwoman - unknowingly filmed becomes the star of Federico’s movie. A movie that will push Federico towards success and Marianna into incredulity and desperation...