Navin Johnson, the simple-minded adopted son of a loving but impecunious black family, summons up the strength to leave his humble farmhouse in rural Alabama and sets off on an exciting journey to California. Intent on attending the wedding of his dear pen-pal, Marie, instead, Navin finds himself in the clutches of Diesel, the scheming leader of a ruthless gang of vagabonds, who have discovered Navin's remarkable talent in playing cards. Now, Navin is in Las Vegas, taking part in a high-stakes game. Can Marie save her innocent friend?