Asteroid City

A television host introduces a documentary that explores the making of *Asteroid City*, a play by Conrad Earp. The retrospective is presented in vibrant widescreen color, offering a contrast to the classic black-and-white visuals of the accompanying television special.

War photojournalist Augie Steenbeck arrives in the fictional desert town of Asteroid City with his teenage son Woodrow and three daughters. Their trip takes a turn when their car unexpectedly breaks down, prompting Augie to call his estranged father-in-law, Stanley.

While on the phone with Stanley, Augie is pushed to share the painful truth about their mother's death with his children. This revelation adds tension to Augie's already strained relationship with Stanley, highlighting family dynamics amid grief.

Augie and Woodrow meet Midge Campbell, a renowned actress who arrives at the convention with her daughter Dinah. As they connect, a romantic subplot emerges between Augie and Midge, alongside a budding romance between Woodrow and Dinah, adding depth to the storyline.

The Junior Stargazer convention kicks off as General Grif Gibson addresses the attendees at the Asteroid City crater. The event brings together honored teenagers, scientists, and dignitaries, creating a celebration of innovation and achievement.

As the convention unfolds, a UFO appears and disrupts the festivities, capturing Augie's attention. An alien emerges from the craft and takes a remnant of the meteorite, shifting the tone of the event from celebratory to chaotic.

In the wake of the UFO incident, General Gibson orders a military quarantine for Asteroid City, mandating thorough evaluations for all attendees. The sudden quarantine brings fear and uncertainty to the gathering, impacting all families present.

Using Dr. Hickenlooper’s equipment, the Stargazer honorees attempt to communicate with the alien. Their efforts demonstrate their youthful determination to bridge the gap between humans and extraterrestrial life, amidst the chaos surrounding them.

In a clever act of rebellion, young Ricky manages to divert a guard's attention and contacts his school newspaper to leak news about the quarantine. This act of courage raises questions about authority and freedom of information during a crisis.

With national attention on Asteroid City, the tension escalates as General Gibson faces pressure to lift the quarantine. The unexpected return of the UFO further complicates matters, leading to a unification of the children, scientists, and parents in a stand against military authority.

After the UFO's return, General Gibson reinstates the quarantine even stronger than before, calling for further restrictions. This decision intensifies the emotions of those trapped in the town, who begin devising plans to challenge the military’s control.

As the quarantine ends, Augie and his family are among the last to leave Asteroid City. In a moment of reflection, Woodrow announces his secured fellowship funding while Midge shares her contact info with Augie, hinting at new beginnings.

In a subplot, playwright Conrad Earp meets actor Jones Hall, who auditions for his play and is quickly cast. Their professional relationship evolves into a romantic one, showing the intertwining aspects of love and ambition in the theater world.

During the production, Hall confesses to director Schubert Green about his doubts concerning the role of Augie. Green’s encouragement provides Hall with the confidence to convey the depth of his character amidst the pressures of live theater.

Despite the successful run of the play, Conrad Earp suffers a tragic accident, losing his life six months into its performance. This poignant conclusion underscores the fragility of life and the legacy left behind in art.