Born in Costa Rica in 1919, Chavela Vargas ran away to Mexico City to sing in the streets. By the 50s, she was a household name. Just as powerful were her cultural contributions; Chavela was a bold, sexual pioneer, known for having many female lovers at a time when being out in Mexico was dangerous.

An intimate interview with the legendary ranchera singer forms the backbone of this evocative documentary. Pedro Almodóvar leads the talking heads, illuminating us on her gender-defying prime, while Vargas herself fills out the juicy details of her various conquests—from Ava Gardner to Frida Kahlo.