A group of former factory workers, put out of work by economic recession in Northern Italy, decide to go into the ostrich farming business. Meanwhile, restauranteur Mario is suicidal after his wife leaves him and his business fails. Renato, leader of the ostrich farmers, is keen to entertain another Mario - a powerful regional councillor - who is dating his sister. But a mix up results in the wrong Mario coming to dinner, a mistake that is ultimately the best thing for both sides.