Zama, a Spanish officer born in South America, waits for a letter from the king granting him a better position. His situation is delicate. For this reason, he is forced to accept every assignment with obedience. Of course, the king's order never comes. When he finds that waiting is futile, he decides to take part in a dangerous mission in the hope of making his case heard by the king. However, when his life is in danger, he finds that his only wish is to stay alive.