In a poor neighborhood in Mexico City, two gangs of kids fight for control of the center where they work as "boleros", musicians or announcers. "Completo" joins the gang led by "Rorro", a rival of the group headed by "Curricán".

Alberto is born in wartime, where his father dies a hero. He grows up effeminate. His mother sends him to military college where Fernando bullies him, but they become friends. When war comes, he has to face his fears.