Eagle vs Shark

Lily, a shy and wistful girl, spends her days finding solace in songwriting while working at a fast food restaurant in Wellington. Amidst the noise of daily life, her creativity becomes her escape, allowing her to express her inner feelings.

While working, Lily secretly harbors a crush on Jarrod, a charming geek from the local video game store. This unspoken affection colors her days as she daydreams about the connection they could share.

Jarrod gives Lily an invitation to a quirky 'dress as your favorite animal' party, intending for her to pass it to her colleague Jenny. Unfortunately, Jenny dismisses the invitation, which sparks Lily's determination to attend the party regardless.

Lily decides to attend the animal costume party, bringing along her supportive brother, Damon. The sparse gathering surprises her, but Jarrod is captivated by her clever shark outfit and unique video game skills, leading to a chance for connection.

During the party, Jarrod and Lily retreat to his room, where they share personal stories, including Lily's tragic loss of her parents. This vulnerable moment culminates in a romantic kiss and a fleeting intimate encounter that deepens their bond.

The following day, Lily is disappointed when Jarrod misses their planned date, leaving her feeling worried about their budding relationship. When Jarrod finally arrives, he opens up about his struggles with depression and mentions a high-school bully, Eric.

Jarrod expresses his wish to confront Eric, but his lack of transportation hampers his plans. Demonstrating brotherly support, Damon offers to drive Jarrod and Lily to his hometown, marking the start of their joint adventure.

Upon arrival, Lily is introduced to Jarrod's unconventional family dynamics, which include his emotionally distant father who is in a wheelchair and an array of quirky family business ventures. The strange atmosphere provides Lily with a clearer insight into Jarrod's struggles.

It becomes apparent that Jarrod's father favors his successful brother, Gordon, intensifying Jarrod's feelings of inadequacy. As Jarrod trains for his confrontation with Eric, he grapples with anxiety and feelings of rejection, creating friction in his relationship with Lily.

Feeling overwhelmed by his personal issues and the weight of his revenge plan, Jarrod breaks off his budding relationship with Lily. He tells her that he’s too complex and wrapped up in his quest for revenge, leaving Lily heartbroken and confused.

Despite her heartbreak, Lily keeps her head high, attending a local party where she dances freely, trying to move on. Jarrod watches from a distance, grappling with jealousy as he sees her enjoying life without him.

In a climactic moment, Jarrod finally confronts Eric, only to discover that his former bully is now disabled. This encounter forces Jarrod to confront his own emotions and questions about revenge and forgiveness.

During a family dinner filled with laughter, jealousy erupts within Jarrod as he compares himself to Gordon's achievements. The tension between him and his family increases, putting him at odds and pushing him further away from Lily.

Following his chaotic encounter with Eric and family drama, Jarrod isolates himself, spiraling into distress and self-doubt. Concerned for him, Lily follows his lead, hoping to offer words of support amid the emotional turmoil.

At a bus stop, Jarrod waits for Lily with a bouquet of lilies as a gesture of apology, signaling a turning point in their relationship. Their shared bus ride represents a new beginning filled with hope, vulnerabilities, and the promise of overcoming their complex emotional landscapes together.