The film takes place in a post-classic Maya civilization. The story revolves around Jaguar Paw (played by Rudy Youngblood), a young man who lives in a remote village on the outskirts of the Maya empire. After his village is raided by a group of warriors from a nearby city, Jaguar Paw is captured and taken prisoner. He witnesses the dark rituals and human sacrifices practiced by the Maya, including the sacrifice of his own family.