My Man and I

Chu Chu Ramirez, a Mexican farm laborer, has just become an American citizen and is determined to do better. He envisions a brighter future in the United States and commits to opportunities beyond his current grind.

After grape season ends, Chu Chu takes a job clearing land for Ansel Ames on a farm near Sacramento. This work brings him into contact with the Ames family and sets up the bonds and tensions to come.

Mrs. Ames, lonely and unhappy in her marriage, grows attracted to Chu Chu. He remains friendly and professional, making clear he does not reciprocate her advances.

Chu Chu becomes drawn to Nancy, a troubled waitress with a drinking problem. He uses a prized letter from President Roosevelt to raise money for Nancy and asks her to be his girl, signaling his wish to start a life with her.

After finishing work, Chu Chu tries to cash his paycheck but the bank refuses payment. He confronts Ames about the bad check, and Ames threatens him with a shotgun.

Chu Chu takes the dispute to a labor board, which promises that his pay will be issued within sixty days. This provides a glimmer of hope while delaying the resolution.

He plans to find Nancy, who has moved to Los Angeles, and marry her once his pay arrives. This plan shows his determination to build a life with her despite the hardship.

Sixty days pass and Chu Chu attempts to collect his pay, but Ames attacks him. Chu Chu knocks Ames down and leaves the scene to avoid further conflict.

Ames and his wife argue, and Mrs. Ames declares Chu Chu is worth ten of him. In a violent moment, he strikes her, she collides with a gun rack, and a gun fires, wounding Ames in the shoulder.

The Ameses falsely claim that Chu Chu shot Ames, and he is arrested as the investigation unfolds. The accusation triggers legal peril for Chu Chu.

News arrives that Nancy has attempted suicide in Los Angeles. Chu Chu escapes from jail to rush to her side, and the lovers are briefly reunited before the authorities recapture him.

At the trial, both Ames and Mrs. Ames repeat the false claim that Chu Chu shot Ames, and he is found guilty. The judge grants a light sentence, but Chu Chu learns he will lose his citizenship for being a convict.

Feeling that injustice has been done, Chu Chu's cousin and friends camp outside the Ames property, playing Mexican songs and performing acts to constantly remind the Ameses of Chu Chu's presence.

Nancy, still ill, arrives and accuses Mrs. Ames of destroying Chu Chu. She then collapses and is rushed to the hospital, adding to the emotional stakes of the case.

The Ameses confess to perjury and admit the truth that Chu Chu did not shoot Ames. Chu Chu is released and reunites with Nancy at the hospital, closing the arc of injustice with a fragile resolution.