Cuba, summer 1994. In the midst of Periodo Especial, one of the greatest crises in the country's history, thousands of Cuban rafters try to reach the United States illegally, never sure if they'll make it out alive. With holidays starting, Carlos plunges into a carefree August, wandering around with his friends and falling in love for the first time. Little does he know about the country's uncertain future, until one by one, neighbors and friends leave in search of a better life, friendships break apart and families split up. In this hot summer, the world of Carlos will turn upside down.