And Then I Go

Edwin and his friend Flake navigate the harsh realities of junior high school, facing persistent bullying that leaves them feeling isolated. Their experience is compounded by misunderstandings from peers and adults, who see them as the problem rather than the victims.

Edwin's father and other authority figures dismiss his struggles as typical teenage angst. This misunderstanding continues until a frank meeting with the vice principal forces Edwin's parents to reconsider their views on their son's situation.

During an afterschool gathering, Flake shows Edwin his father's gun collection and provocatively suggests revenge against their bullies. Edwin, feeling a strong sense of loyalty, begins to entertain these dangerous thoughts despite their moral implications.

Edwin's artistic skills catch the attention of his art teacher, who encourages him to enter an upcoming art competition. At this moment, he experiences a brief boost in self-esteem when two classmates show admiration for his work.

While Edwin attempts to embrace his art and newfound self-worth, Flake becomes increasingly fixated on their revenge plot. This growing tension causes a rift in their friendship, despite their shared experiences as bullying victims.

A violent altercation between Flake and Edwin leaves Edwin injured and emotionally shattered. This incident prompts a period of separation that unexpectedly brings Edwin some emotional stability and reflection on his choices.

Edwin's sense of safety is disrupted when he tries to reclaim a toy ball from a man and his son, facing aggression in a very personal way. This experience heightens his feelings of anger and desire for retaliation.

Reuniting with Flake, Edwin finds their bond reinforced as they meet Herman, another victim of bullying. Herman's desperate plea for action and mention of needing a weapon add to Edwin's moral conflict as he feels the seduction of vengeance.

As the school assembly day approaches, Edwin's mother plans a family trip to reconnect with him. Caught between his loyalty to Flake and the warmth of family, Edwin grapples with guilt and fear about their impending actions.

On the eve of the assembly, Flake and Edwin prepare to execute their revenge plan. Edwin has a heartfelt moment with his father, drawing him further into the emotional conflict of the situation, as he wishes his father well.

As chaos breaks out during the school assembly, Flake acts against their classmates by unleashing gunfire. Edwin stands frozen in terror, desiring to stop Flake but feeling incapable of doing so.

In the midst of the chaos, Flake is shot by police while attempting to reload his weapon, marking a tragic climax to their revenge. Edwin is left to grapple with the consequences of their actions and the loss of his friend.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Edwin finds himself reflecting on happier moments spent with his family at the lake. These bittersweet memories highlight his internal conflicts and longing for belonging amidst the chaos.

As the film draws to a close, Edwin encapsulates his emotional journey by reminiscing about his past. The poignant line, 'Good for you, kid. Good for you,' captures his conflicting feelings of loss, guilt, and nostalgia.