Ewa and her sister sail to New York from their native Poland in search of the American dream. When they reach Ellis Island, doctors discover that Magda is ill, and the sisters are separated. Ewa is released onto the mean streets of Manhattan while her sister is quarantined. Alone, Ewa quickly falls prey to evil Bruno, who takes her in and forces her into prostitution. Orlando, Bruno's cousin, arrives and restores her hopes for a brighter future, becoming her only chance to escape her nightmare.