By 1973, the Pimentel Barbosa indigenous community in Mato Grosso State was threatened by the encroachment of the “civilized” world, which was moving steadily closer towards the Xavante lands. The tribal leaders decided to select a few boys who would have to learn to live and think like Brazilians living in towns, as becoming more familiar with the mainstream mindset was the only way of establishing an even playing-field for negotiating with the ‘enemy’. This highly successful approach is recorded in this film through the daily lives and memories of these young exiles, initially homesick and lonely, but returning to their people as leaders well-equipped to handle exchanges between the Xavante nation and the rest of Brazilian society. Through this innovative approach, the Xavantes re-established rights that had long been neglected ? and they are still fighting to maintain their heritage.