In the remote villages on the edge of the Anatolian Taurus Mountains, the landowner Abdi Aga holds sway. The soil is so miserable that almost only thistles grow on it. From every harvest, the Aga demands two-thirds. Memed, the farmer's son, has drawn his wrath and is forced to flee to the mountains. The frail, timid boy transforms into a bandit, rebel, and avenger of the people.