Checco Zalone is a young man from southern Italy who dreams of becoming a singer. His girlfriend, who wants to seattle down rather than chase impossible dreams, dumps him and he moves to Milan, in northern Italy, staying with his cousin Alfredo. Checco meets Marika, and it is love at first sight for both of them, but the girl's father cannot stand southern Italians. After a number of try-outs, Checco's singing and comic talents are recognised. His dream is coming true: will he stay with Marika or return to his hometown in triumph and win back his old girlfriend?