In the year 1882, the American frontier in Old Stump, Arizona, is a tough place to live where food scarcity and rampant disease create a harsh existence. Without reliable law enforcement, self-styled vigilantes often take justice into their own hands. Among the residents is Albert Stark (Seth MacFarlane), a timid sheep farmer who faces the heart-wrenching end of his relationship with his girlfriend, Louise (Amanda Seyfried), after he chooses to avoid a duel with the aggressive Charlie. Instead of engaging in violence, Albert tries to find a peaceful resolution, which costs him both love and respect.
As Charlie gives Albert just two days to compensate for the losses he caused, Louise chastises him for not standing up for himself, claiming that he’s incapable of managing his sheep that wander freely. Albert lives with his parents, Elsie and George, while his best friend Edward (Giovanni Ribisi) maintains a relationship with Ruth (Sarah Silverman), a prostitute who works in the brothel run by Millie. Despite Edward's acceptance of Ruth's profession, the complexities of love and intimacy create additional tension, as they have yet to consummate their love, with Ruth wishing to wait until marriage.
Stricken with disillusionment, Albert contemplates leaving Old Stump for San Francisco, believing there’s nothing left for him in the chaotic environment, filled with outlaws, unruly drunks, and deadly diseases like cholera. The death of the town's mayor remains a stark reminder of the danger that looms, with even the pastor having committed murder.
In a turn of events, the notorious outlaw Clinch Leatherwood (Liam Neeson) commits a heinous act by robbing and killing an old prospector over a nugget of gold, showcasing the brutal realities of frontier life. Clinch, who directs his gang with an iron fist, decides to send his wife Anna (Charlize Theron) to Old Stump while he continues his banditry, promising to return for her in twelve days.
After Louise begins dating the wealthy Foy (Neil Patrick Harris), Albert becomes more despondent, but a twist of fate leads him to save Anna from a brawl involving the local troublemaker Charlie, igniting a budding friendship. Anna encourages Albert and offers to accompany him to a county fair, funnily declaring that Louise will be envious upon seeing Albert with a vibrant young woman like her.
Their connection deepens as Anna helps Albert prepare for a duel against Foy, where confidence and self-worth become central themes. Throughout the county fair, they encounter challenges, including a shooting contest that ends in embarrassment for Albert, further fueling their determination and camaraderie.
However, the rivalry escalates when Foy, provoked by the situation, challenges Albert more dangerously, leading to a confrontation that spirals into chaos. While Albert wrestles with his feelings and the looming threat from Clinch, he undergoes a transformative journey that forces him to confront his fears and ultimately fight for love. With Anna's support, he realizes his worth and battles both Clinch and his own insecurities.
In a climactic showdown, Albert faces the outlaw, delivering a dramatic final confrontation rife with tension and unexpected twists. Despite Clinch's threats and violent past, it is Albert's newfound courage that wins the day, culminating in a bittersweet resolution as love and values triumph against the desolate backdrop of the Old West. Albert walks away with a bounty, finally ready to embrace new beginnings with Anna while reclaiming his confidence and purpose amidst the harsh realities of frontier life.
