In the vast and mysterious lands of Siberia, a Japanese explorer, Captain Arsenyev, embarks on an expedition to map the unexplored region. During his journey, he encounters a native of the area, a hunter named Dersu Uzala, who possesses a deep knowledge of the forest and its secrets. Despite the barriers of language and culture, an unbreakable friendship emerges between the two men, transcending their differences and reflecting the human connection amidst the wild nature.
Dersu, with his intuitive approach to the environment and his survival skills, teaches Arsenyev to appreciate the beauty of the natural landscape as well as its fragility. The film explores the relationship between man and nature, showing how Dersu's ancestral wisdom contrasts with the rational and scientific perspective of the explorer. As the expedition progresses, the challenges of extreme weather and the struggle for survival test their bond.
However, the story does not only focus on friendship; it also raises profound reflections on modernity, the loss of traditions, and the inevitable arrival of change. Over time, the loyalty between Dersu and Arsenyev is tested, leading them to make decisions that will irreversibly affect their lives. This moving odyssey serves as a reminder of the fragility of the connection between human beings and nature, and how, at times, the most valuable aspect lies in mutual understanding and respect.