Sawdust Tales is a whimsical and timeless parable on survival in hard times and the force of a first love against all odds. In a timeless no-mans land scarred by social decay and imminent war a circus troupe awaits the arrival of the mysterious Rupert who is to deliver them from danger into a better world. The old and wise tightrope master keeps a watchful loving eye on his young apprentice who to his concern could be drafted into the army at any moment. To make matters worse the boy falls in love with a mermaid...