Tizoc

In a 19th-century village near the Oaxacan sierra, Tizoc readies himself for his impending wedding to Machinza. An old quarrel between their families and tribes shadows the union, as Tizoc's superior hunting skills threaten the hide of Machinza's people. The feud complicates even the most personal plans, foreshadowing tragedy if it cannot be resolved.

A Criollo woman named Maria arrives in town with her wealthy cattle driver father, stirring the town with their presence. The town priest is struck by Maria's striking resemblance to the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, an omen that foreshadows fate. The encounter sets the stage for a life-changing connection.

During a hunting expedition, danger erupts and Tizoc must rescue Maria's father from peril. The successful act earns Maria's attention and marks the beginning of a shift in their relationship. The incident foreshadows a growing attraction between them.

Maria, initially appalled by Tizoc's rough manners, begins to be drawn to his bravery and unspoken kindness. As she spends time with him, she finds herself developing feelings despite her existing engagement. This attraction complicates her loyalties and future plans.

When Maria offers her handkerchief to Tizoc, a new warmth grows and he realizes his feelings overshadow Machinza. This shift unsettles him, threatening the planned marriage and triggering tension with Machinza's family. The romance begins to break traditional boundaries.

Machinza voices her concerns to her brother Nicuil, accusing Tizoc of jeopardizing their family's honor. Nicuil responds with anger, viewing the romance as a stain on their reputation. The family rift deepens as the conflict intensifies.

Driven by the sense of betrayal, Nicuil murders Machinza to silence the perceived defection. The act escalates the feud and propels Tizoc toward confrontation. The tragedy marks a turning point in the lovers' struggle against family demands.

Nicuil pursues Tizoc in a bid to avenge his sister and salvage family honor. In a decisive confrontation, Tizoc kills Nicuil to stop the cycle of vengeance. The violence underscored the high cost of crossing feudal lines.

Realizing that her lifestyle clashes with her own goals and that she loves Tizoc, Maria resolves to join him. She decides to leave her previous life and travel to Tizoc's mountain abode. Their bond now seeks a shared future beyond tribal constraint.

With their bond deepened, Maria and Tizoc move toward a cave entrance that could serve as a temporary hideout. They venture together, seeking safety and a place to be free from the feud's reach. The plan is precarious but hopeful.

Just as they near safety, Machinza's father Cosijope shoots an arrow aimed at Tizoc but strikes Maria instead, killing her. The sudden tragedy shatters the lovers' hopes and seals their fate. The violent culmination underscores the cost of feuds.

Grief-stricken, Tizoc seizes the same weapon and pierces his heart, ending his life. The film closes with his voice repeating that the souls of lovers become nightingales after death, preserving their memory as a poignant myth. The tragedy leaves a lasting, mournful resonance.