Along for the Ride

Eighteen-year-old Auden West relocates to the small beachside town of Colby to spend the summer with her father, Robert. This significant change marks her transition from a life focused on academics to one where she hopes to find connection and freedom.

Auden's desire to bond with her father is met with resistance from her mother, Victoria. This tension highlights the strained familial relationships that Auden is trying to navigate as she settles into her new environment.

On her first day in Colby, Auden visits a local hangout called 'the Tip' at the suggestion of her father's new wife, Heidi. During her visit, she impulsively kisses a boy and quickly feels regret, setting the tone for her summer explorations.

Auden begins her summer job at Heidi's shop, where she meets three girls: Leah, Esther, and Maggie. The initial coldness from Maggie, who is the ex-girlfriend of the boy Auden kissed, adds to the complications of forming new friendships.

Auden encounters Eli Stock, a fellow night owl and BMX biker, who invites her to join in on nightly adventures. He encourages her to rediscover the joy in life that she has missed, and they begin to forge a deeper connection.

During a mini-golf date, Auden confides in Eli about missing her prom and the feelings associated with her abandoned aspirations. Their bond deepens as they share their stories, despite Auden's underlying sadness.

Auden's mother, Victoria, arrives unexpectedly to confront her about her connection with Heidi and the new life Robert has created. This visit stirs up old conflicts, but also prompts Auden to assert her desire for connection.

At a gathering, Auden learns about Eli's tragic past involving the death of his best friend, Abe. This revelation helps her understand Eli's emotional barriers and reinforces the theme of loss in their lives.

Auden invites Eli to the annual Fourth of July 'Hot Dog Party', and despite his initial reluctance, he joins. Their connection culminates in a chaotic food fight and a romantic night swim, where they share their first kiss under fireworks.

Auden witnesses her father, Robert, in distress outside a café, contemplating leaving home due to conflicts with Heidi. This pivotal moment prompts Auden to confront him about his responsibilities, highlighting her growth and maturity.

After a significant argument with Eli over her fear of biking, Auden seeks help from Maggie to learn to ride again. This moment symbolizes Auden's determination to face her fears and not be hindered by past trauma.

Eli participates in a local skate park BMX competition, reigniting his passion for biking. His triumphant victory serves as a turning point for both him and Auden, reinforcing the theme of pursuing one's passions.

Eli surprises Auden by showing up in a tux, prompting her to wear her prom dress. They bike to the beach along with friends, culminating in an impromptu prom party filled with laughter and love, marking a high point in their relationship.

As Auden prepares for college in Barcelona, she reflects on her summer experiences. Reading a postcard from Eli, she shares a moment with her new roommate, Maggie, signifying the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.