Always Shine

Beth prepares to celebrate a notable milestone in her acting career. She has recently landed roles in thrilling films and commercial work that often involves nudity, leading her to plan a weekend getaway.

As Beth and Anna travel towards Big Sur, they share excitement about the upcoming trip. During the drive, Beth is recognized by an admirer, creating a moment of pride and further conversation between the two friends.

Anna discovers that Beth is featured in the current 'Young Hollywood' magazine issue. This revelation leads to a heartfelt discussion where Anna expresses her frustrations regarding her recent breakup and her struggles within the industry.

The friends stop at a local bar where Anna unsuccessfully attempts to flirt with an older man. His disinterest escalates when Beth steps away, prompting Anna to feel rejected and ultimately cry herself to sleep that night.

During an audition practice session, Anna shows significant talent, overshadowing Beth's abilities. The contrast between their skills becomes a source of tension as they hike through the woods, where Anna discovers Beth's previous knowledge of an audition opportunity for her.

Feeling betrayed, Anna confronts Beth about not sharing the casting opportunity. The argument escalates, intensifying the emotional strain between the two friends as they struggle with jealousy and insecurity.

After a heated confrontation, Beth returns to the cottage and vents to her boyfriend about the conflict. She acknowledges Anna’s jealousy and admits to lying about sending her reel to an agent, causing further rifts in their friendship.

Overhearing Beth's confessions angers Anna, leading to a violent confrontation. Their fight spills into the woods, amplifying the physical and emotional turmoil as Anna's rage brews.

The next morning, Anna begins to mimic Beth's appearance and demeanor, seeking to embody her friend’s success. This transformation leads to mistaken identity from the bartender at the bar, resulting in unexpected attention.

While spending time pretending to be Beth, Anna encounters Beth in a menacing confrontation. This reconvening of old friends spirals into panic as Anna reflects on their tumultuous relationship.

Anna finds herself once again retreating into the woods, haunted by memories of her rage-fueled clash with Beth. The atmosphere of dread heightens as Anna starts to grasp the implications of their fractured friendship.

As dawn breaks, Anna returns to the cottage only to face a horrific scene. She encounters Beth's boyfriend alongside police officers who are retrieving a lifeless body from the woods, marking the tragic end of their friendship.