A young scientist named Jamie Dodd seeks to shed light on the mysterious origins of mankind in 1870. Convinced that a study of the legendary Pygmies, still untouched by Western civilization, will provide the answer to this anthropological riddle, he searches the wilds of Africa with the help of Elena van den Ende, a beautiful and enigmatic adventuress who trades in wild cats for European zoos. After a dangerous chase, he finally captures two young Pygmies. Against all prevailing scientific views, Jamie stands alone among his peers in acknowledging the intelligence and sensitivity of his captives. This awareness leads him to a battle for truth and freedom in which he ends up renouncing career, friends and romance. But in the end, by recognizing the humanity of the Pygmies, he wins them over as allies.