Luis Miguel, a young peasant living in Oaxaca, had a dream. He wanted to lift his family out of poverty by becoming a champion Mexican boxer. He even invented a name for himself -- “El Chogui” (Little Bird). But when he determined that fame and fortune in the boxing ring was not a real possibility, he decided to emigrate to the US, following the footsteps of countless other Mexican peasants.

This absorbing and dramatic film follows Luis’ transition over six years. We witness his tension-filled, illegal border crossing along with his sister. With grit and determination learned from watching boxing movies, Luis creates a life for himself in San Diego, arduously working his way up in a hotel. Being a “wetback”, he lives with the constant fear of being arrested and deported.

Six years later, his dream of becoming a champion boxer has receded. His real fight, he realizes, is to improve the lives of his family. He manages to bring his four brothers to California, and continues the attempt to bring his parents.

Luis articulates the larger picture his life symbolizes. America has grown rich on Mexican labor, but refuses to change the rules giving workers legality, peace of mind, and dignity.