Set in the Philippines during the 1940's, Celestina is a story about a woman, a burlesk dancer, who struggles to provide for her family while her husband is a gambling and womanizing drunkard. Despite the hardships, Celestina perseveres and finds strength in her love for her son.
Iris, an 18-year old virgin marries Joaquin, a rich widower, because of money. However, when he learns that Iris is not really a virgin, their honeymoon turns to a bloodbath.