In 1953 Sicily, movie-mad con artist Joe Morelli (Sergio Castellitto) hatches a lucrative scam after he finds a U.S. Army camera and some film stock. He wanders the beautiful countryside and encounters its friendly residents, offering to give them all screen tests--for 1,500 lire a pop.These humble folks embrace the idea and reveal their dreams and regrets as if the camera is their priest. Director, Tornatore's use of actual Sicilian townspeople in many of these scenes lends an incredible honesty and realism to their captivating tales of love, death, and desire for freedom. Their thoughts are etched on their expressive and well-worn faces. Joe's scam takes an unexpected turn when the openness and honesty of the townsfolk stirs something foreign in him--his conscience.