Better Off Dead...

Lane Meyer wakes up excited for his high school's ski team tryouts a few weeks before Christmas. He picks up his girlfriend, Beth, and they drive to the mountains, unaware of the surprises that await them.

During the drive home, Beth reveals to Lane that she will be breaking up with him for Roy Stalin, the captain of the ski team. Lane is heartbroken as he struggles to understand why their six-month relationship has come to an end.

Devastated by the breakup, Lane attempts to win Beth back but finds all his efforts in vain. His heartbreak leads him to consider drastic actions as he spirals deeper into sadness.

Lane's attempts to regain his confidence are further dashed when he fails to hold down a job flipping hamburgers for Rocko. This job, combined with harassment from the Korean brothers, adds to Lane's frustrations.

Lane's father tries to help him move on by setting him up with Joanne, the daughter of his coworker. However, Joanne is disinterested and highlights Lane's lack of popularity, deepening his sense of despair.

At a school dance, Lane meets Monique, a French exchange student who captivates him. Unfortunately, she is soon taken away by Ricky Smith and his overbearing mother, leaving Lane yearning for a connection.

After a suggestion from his friend Charles, Lane decides that skiing the treacherous K-12 slope might be the key to winning Beth back. Despite multiple failed attempts, he refuses to back down.

Lane discovers Monique throwing oranges at a sign, revealing her true ability to speak English. They share a moment of connection as Lane promises to keep her secret, and they begin to build a friendship.

Monique surprises Lane by working on his father's old Camaro, restoring its engine. Together, they bond over the car and take it for a successful test drive, boosting Lane's confidence significantly.

Lane takes Monique out on a date to the burger restaurant where he was previously fired. He impresses her by playing the saxophone, finally forging a real connection with her.

At school, Roy confronts Lane and makes derogatory remarks about Monique. Monique defends Lane by soaking Roy with soda, escalating tension between the boys and laying the groundwork for a showdown.

The whole school gathers for an anticipated rematch between Lane and Roy. With Monique's coaching, Lane prepares to ski down the infamous K-12 slope, shaking off doubts and fears.

In a thrilling race down K-12, Lane surprises everyone by winning against Roy. The townsfolk celebrate his victory, but Lane's attention quickly shifts to Monique, who he desperately wants to find.

After winning the race, Lane faces off against Ricky in a fencing match with ski poles, successfully defeating him. This moment further cements Lane's courage and determination to be with Monique.

The film concludes with Lane and Monique making out on top of Lane's Camaro at Dodger Stadium, symbolizing his newfound confidence and happiness. A paperboy rides by, tying back to earlier events.