Cousins Seydou and Moussa live in Dakar but believe that Italy will offer easier work and greater freedom. Once they raise enough money, they set off across the desert and the sea where they face the scorching sun, physical and mental fatigue, and manifestations of human cruelty. For the traffickers they are only objects without rights or dignity, just like the thousands of other immigrants whose stories inspired the director. This Homerian drama with Senegalese non-actors in the lead roles is not concerned with politics. Through compelling images, the film communicates the pain, despair and hope of people who determinedly pursue their dreams.