Young New York City activists, led by street singer Freemont Zappata and his girl friend, Marian, hijack broadcasting equipment that enables them to interrupt network television. Delivering their own message on the air, the group promotes peace and ecological awareness while decrying war and consumerism. After one group member divulges their location to authorities, federal agents arrest Freemont, send him to trial and convict him. The group subsequently frees Freemont from a detention center, then continues their broadcasts, while Freemont rides his horse alone along a bridle path.

Swope—the only black man on the executive board of an advertising firm—is accidentally put in charge after the death of the chairman.