In the 18th century, in a remote village in France, a group of hunters encounters a wild boy who has lived in isolation in the forest. His appearance is that of a primitive child, masked by nature, and his strange behavior arouses both curiosity and concern among the villagers. They decide to bring him to civilization, where a doctor offers to educate him and begin a study on his development.
The doctor, who firmly believes in the child's ability to adapt to the social world, faces multiple challenges in trying to teach him the rules and language of public life. However, the boy's struggle to understand and communicate with his surroundings generates tensions. As the little one begins to open up, his wild instincts and connection to the forest become a constant reminder of his origins. The story delves into the exploration of human nature and civilization, raising questions about what it truly means to be "human."
Set against the backdrop of the rural landscape, the film also presents us with an emotional journey where the conflict between the wild and the civilized provokes moments of reflection. The relationship between the doctor and the boy becomes a central thread, intertwining tenderness and tragedy, reminding us that, despite attempts at adaptation, there are aspects of nature that never disappear. The story culminates in a conclusion that challenges notions of education and freedom.