In Rio de Janeiro's bohemian district called Lapa, during the '40s, a stylish and popular scoundrel exploits a cabaret singer, and earns his living by means of petty swindles. But then he meets Ludmila, the cabaret owner's daughter, who wants to get rich smuggling goods in times of war.

Orestes, a rich factory owner, falls for the beautiful Fulvia. They communicate using pigeons, to avoid being discovered by her husband.

The making of "Roma, città aperta" by Rossellini, the difficulties in producing it, the mild reaction from the audience at the opening night.

Que deviennent dès lors les acteurs, si on leur supprime leur texte ou le scénario du film ? C'est la question à laquelle tente de répondre Le Vivarium, avec la complicité tantôt curieuse, tantôt amusée, souvent déstabilisée, des protagon…