O Shaolin do Sertão

In 1982, Aluísio Li works quietly in a bakery in Quixadá. He nurtures a fascination with Chinese culture and kung fu cinema, and dresses the part of a Shaolin disciple. He harbors a quiet love for Anésia, who is promised to Armandinho.

The local mayoral candidate Rossivaldo uses Toni Tora Pleura’s boast to win public favor and recruit volunteers. He offers Aluísio money and a shot at glory in a world hungry for heroes. The young man steps forward, driven by ambition and a desire to prove himself beyond the bakery counter.

In the countryside town of Quixeramobim, a fixer named Wilson offers to train him in real kung fu. Aluísio travels with Piolho to learn the craft and earns a trained glow from his new mentor. After a brief, intense training, he returns to Quixadá as a strengthened figure.

Back in Quixadá, he steps into the ring at a local bar, gaining swift fame for his Shaolin persona. The crowd latches onto his image, but the triumph is built on deception, as Wilson and his kin stage the display to squeeze money from spectators.

Piolho’s cousin Jesus exposes the truth: Wilson is a fake and the fight’s glory is tainted. Aluísio feels betrayed as the illusion unravels. In a moment of anger, he destroys the Chinese artifacts in his room.

In his despair, he discovers a hidden videotape of a martial arts movie, A Voadora do Dragão, which becomes a symbol of authentic inspiration he craves.

Without a home video player, he resolves to reclaim one from Rossivaldo’s house. The plan reveals his growing desperation and determination to prove himself beyond the staged spectacle.

On the day of the fight, Rossivaldo presses to secure Aluísio's release so the match can go on and the campaign can survive. The town holds its breath as the outcome could redefine the sport and the community.

In a long, grueling contest, Aluísio defeats Toni Tora Pleura, proving his grit and cementing his dream. The victory marks a personal triumph and a rebirth for the local fighters who look to him as a beacon.

With the prize, Aluísio establishes the Academia de Luta Irmãos Gêmeos de Parte de Pai in Quixadá, signaling a new chapter for the town’s fighters. The academy embodies his dream and redefines the town’s athletic and cultural life.