Always Shine

Beth, an actress portrayed by Caitlin FitzGerald, is on the verge of enjoying a significant breakthrough in her career, taking roles in thrilling films and beer commercials that often require nudity. To celebrate her success, she plans a weekend escape to Big Sur with her best friend, Anna, depicted by Mackenzie Davis, who is currently struggling to make a name for herself in the film industry and often participates in student films without pay.

As they journey towards Big Sur, Beth is unexpectedly recognized by an admirer, prompting a discussion later when Anna discovers that Beth is featured in the current “Young Hollywood” issue of a popular magazine. During their conversation, Anna reveals her frustration over her recent breakup, stemming from a confrontation with her ex-boyfriend’s boss, which led her to react with aggression.

Their trip takes a turn at a local bar where Anna attempts to flirt with an older man, but his interest quickly fades when Beth leaves their vicinity. This man later finds Beth alone and invites her out, much to Anna’s dismay who witnesses this and subsequently cries herself to sleep that night.

The following day, during an audition practice session, it becomes increasingly clear that Anna displays more acting talent than Beth. They venture into the woods for hiking where they run into one of Beth’s directorial acquaintances interested in casting Anna in a short film. Anna feels betrayed upon discovering that Beth had known about this opportunity all along but chose not to inform her. This revelation leads to a heated confrontation between the two, resulting in an emotional split.

While returning to their rented cottage, a bartender gives Beth a lift. Once at the cottage, Beth confides in her boyfriend about their conflict, admitting Anna’s jealousy despite acknowledging Anna’s superior acting skills. She even reveals that she lied about sending Anna’s reel to her agent and throws insults at Anna. Heartbroken and enraged, Anna overhears this and violently confronts Beth, who escapes into the woods with Anna hot on her heels, where the argument escalates.

The following morning, Anna begins to mimic Beth’s style, dressing in her clothes and adopting her demeanor. She returns to the bar, where the bartender mistakes her for Beth, leading to flirtation and a day of companionship. However, as the evening unfolds, and while dining at a friend’s house and subsequently at a club, Anna is confronted by the real Beth who has taken on a persona similar to Anna’s. Panic sets in, prompting Anna to retreat to the woods, flooded with memories of their tumultuous encounter that ended with Anna in a rage, fatally harming Beth.

As dawn breaks, Anna awakens alone in the woods. Upon returning to the house, she is met with a horrifying sight—Beth’s boyfriend alongside police officers, who are retrieving a lifeless body discovered in the woods, marking a tragic and shocking culmination of their fraught friendship.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 16:41