Vacuum repairman and self-appointed mayor of Prometto, Italy (population 212) Signor Speranza has a problem. He needs 70,000 euros to fix the village pipes, or the water commission will shut off the water, and residents will disperse. To boost tourist revenue, Speranza spreads a rumor that movie star Dante Rinaldi will come for his next project nearby.
Unfortunately, the plan works too well. Everyone wants in on the fictional film—the butcher wants roles for his fifteen enormous sons, Speranza’s daughter is unexpectedly interested in stage makeup, and his assistant offers up a screenplay.