It has been three decades since the famous actor Julio Arenas disappeared without trace during filming. Although his body was never found, the police concluded at the time that he must have had an accident at sea. Many years later, a television programme brings his story into the present day and shows the last scenes where the actor can be seen. This brings back poignant memories for Julio's friend Miguel, who directed the film at the time. Víctor Erice's moving drama brings together the opulence of classical cinema and the sensationalism of today's media.