Naples to New York

In 1949, Celestina's world collapses when an accidental explosion destroys her home and kills her aunt Amelia, leaving her an orphan. Her sister Agnese has already emigrated to New York, and Celestina must navigate life with little support. Carmine, a street-smart twelve-year-old boy, survives by selling cigarettes.

On the Naples waterfront, Carmine and Celestina encounter George, an African-American cook aboard the U.S. Navy ship Victory. After a failed jaguar cub deal, Carmine secretly follows George onto the ship, with Celestina clinging to his boat. The two decide to become clandestine stowaways bound for New York.

The ship's purser, Domenico Garofalo, discovers the children aboard and convinces the captain to let them stay until arrival. He believes their presence can be managed and gives them a chance at a new life at sea. The arrangement buys the children time to plan their future.

During the voyage, Celestina and Carmine help George in the galley and join in card games that entertain or trick passengers. Their improvised camaraderie deepens their bond with the ship's crew. The trio's resilience helps them cope with the uncertainty of their journey.

George is arrested on suspicion of wrongdoing, casting a shadow over their precarious escape. Carmine testifies on George's behalf, and his account helps prove George's innocence, leading to an exoneration. The incident reinforces the children's reliance on each other.

Upon arrival in New York, Domenico leverages the captain's alcoholism to prevent the children's deportation. George helps them disembark secretly, hidden inside a crate of oranges, slipping away from the ship unseen.

In New York, Celestina learns that Agnese has been arrested and charged with murdering her abusive husband. Despairing, Celestina attempts suicide but is saved by local children and hospitalized for treatment and care.

Carmine is reunited with Domenico and his wife Anna, who consider adopting both children. Carmine hesitates, fearing that adoption would make Celestina his sister and block a future marriage between them. The pair confront a dilemma about family and belonging in a new land.

Domenico enlists journalist Joe Agrillo to publicize Agnese's plight, beginning a public campaign. Italian-American communities and early feminist groups rally to her defense, applying pressure on authorities. The case grows into a beacon of communal solidarity.

The intense advocacy leads to a dramatic shift: Agnese's sentence is reduced from death to two years in prison. The outcome demonstrates the power of collective action and public advocacy in a harsh legal system.

Domenico offers them a home in the United States, signaling a path to stability after their perilous journey. This generous gesture plants a seed of hope for a fresh start, even as challenges remain ahead.

Carmine and Celestina face an uncertain but hopeful future as they prepare to build a life in their new land. They pledge to support each other and pursue happiness beyond mere survival, embracing the possibilities of a better tomorrow.