Helena, married to decorator Bruno, is a woman dissatisfied with the futility of social life. She rekindles her relationship with her former boyfriend, Clóvis, and discovers how difficult the struggle for happiness is by seeing the example of the less fortunate. After saving herself from the rough seas on the beach, Helena finds herself possessed by a mystical fear. On New Year's Eve, while the people celebrate Iemanjá, Helena and Bruno throw a lavish party. Their employee, Luiz, is arrested as a suspect in the death of a woman found on the beach. Having a disagreement with her husband, Helena leaves the party and throws herself into the sea. She is saved by Umbanda followers and welcomed by Bruno, who tries in vain to comfort her.