Robert Aldrich directs this American comedy starring Gene Wilder, Harrison Ford and Ramon Bieri. In 1850s America, newly-graduated rabbi Avram Belinski (Wilder) sets off for the San Francisco synagogue where he is to lead his first congregation. On the way, he runs into three conmen who deceive Avram into paying for their journey before leaving him robbed and stranded in remote Pennsylvania.

When he is eventually able to continue on his way to San Francisco, a chance encounter introduces him to bank robber Tommy (Ford) who takes Avram under his wing and helps him to safely reach his destination. However, when they meet some undesirables on the way, Avram is forced to take actions which will leave him questioning his faith...