Set in Mexico at the turn of the century, Tita is doomed never to marry. Her family's tradition requires the youngest daughter to spend her life taking care of her mother until death. But Tita is in love with Pedro, and he with her. Since he cannot marry Tita, he asks for the hand of her sister, in order to be near Tita. Tita's third sister runs off with a group of guerillas fighting in the civil war. The movie follows Tita and Pedro through 1932.

Throughout, the tone of the movie is one of magical realism. It is a tribute to an old vision of romantic love, a love that transcends time, and overcomes distance, madness, and even the direct interference of Tita's family. Many viewers may find this style and tone slow, even boring. But for those who enjoy a contemplative movie or novel, this will be a very enjoyable treat.

Along the way, the movie manages to develop some interesting themes about the roles of women in Mexico. Tita is little more than a slave, while her sister Rosaura is a spoiled and spiteful brat. Groomed for marriage, she is little more than a doll. Gertrudis, the third sister, becomes a rebel general. Interestingly, Tita and Gertrudis wind up happy, Rosaura dies of an intestinal complaint.