Biutiful

Uxbal finds himself in a snowy forest, where he unexpectedly meets his father, who died in exile due to political opposition. Their meeting is emotional as they share a cigarette, reminiscing about life and the sound of the sea.

In a tender moment, Uxbal lies in bed with his daughter Ana, who confronts him about his failing health. Their interaction is filled with love, as they admire each other's hands, and Uxbal lovingly refers to her as 'mi amor'.

Uxbal grapples with the harsh reality of his prostate cancer diagnosis, significantly impacting his outlook on life. Struggling with painful symptoms, he feels the weight of providing for his children as he confronts his mortality.

Uxbal operates as a middleman, facilitating the sale of illicit goods from a Chinese sweatshop to Senegalese vendors. This grim work reveals the exploitative conditions faced by the immigrant workers he relies on.

His brother Tito complicates Uxbal's life further, as he has an affair with Uxbal's estranged wife. Together, they exploit Chinese workers, creating tension as their poor living conditions come to light.

Ekweme and his wife Ege face their own challenges, torn between their desire to return to Senegal and their current life. Ekweme's resolution to stay complicates their already difficult situation.

As Uxbal navigates his precarious business operations, police pressure intensifies, threatening his livelihood. He struggles to protect his street vendor network from the growing dangers around them.

Uxbal's estranged wife, Marambra, re-enters their lives, battling her mental health issues and addiction. Uxbal, witnessing her commitment to sobriety, gradually allows her back into their family fold.

Uxbal discovers his unique ability to communicate with the deceased, providing comfort to a grieving family after a tragic loss. This gift adds a supernatural layer to his already troubled existence.

A horrific incident occurs when the Chinese immigrant workers asphyxiate due to faulty gas heaters, stemming from Uxbal's intentions to provide warmth. The tragedy escalates the consequences of his choices and the lives affected.

As Uxbal's health declines, he is compelled to seek Ege's assistance in caring for his children. Their relationship begins to deepen amidst the chaos of his life's spiral.

Uxbal struggles with trusting Marambra, aware that bringing her back into his life could be a risk. His decision weighs heavily as he deliberates how it might affect their children.

The narrative circles back to its origins, as Uxbal confronts the realities of life and death. His journey prompts deep reflections on family bonds and the inevitable nature of his plight.

Despite Uxbal's deteriorating condition and the trust he places in Ege, she initially hesitates to take on the responsibility of caring for his children. Her eventual acceptance highlights the complexity of their emerging relationship.