Ezra

Max Bernal, a struggling comedian, and Jenna, his ex-wife, navigate the challenges of parenting their autistic son, Ezra. Their separation sets the stage for the hardships they face in their attempts to provide the best environment for Ezra's development.

The Ezra School suggests that Max and Jenna pursue a traditional educational approach, recommending special education and professionals trained in disabilities. Max, however, disputes this, believing that a regular school environment would better help Ezra cope with real-life challenges.

After the separation, Max lives with his father, Stan, a former successful chef. Stan's volatile temperament has contributed to Max's struggles, and they both try to understand their relationship while managing the challenges posed by Ezra's condition.

Ezra overhears an alarming conversation between his mother and her new boyfriend, a lawyer. The boyfriend jokingly suggests eliminating Ezra's problems, which deeply traumatizes Ezra and leads to his runaway attempt.

Frightened from running away, Ezra crosses the street without paying attention and nearly gets hit by a car. This close call prompts a hospital visit, where misunderstandings lead to a severe misjudgment by the medical staff.

At the hospital, doctors mistakenly conclude that Ezra attempted suicide, leading to a recommendation for him to enroll in a special school and take medication. This decision causes outrage and despair in Max, who feels his role as a parent is being undermined.

In a fit of frustration and desperation to protect his son, Max confronts the doctors, leading to his arrest. He is ordered to stay away from Ezra for three months, further complicating their already strained relationship.

As Max is unable to be with Ezra, the young boy begins attending a special school. The medication he is prescribed leads to an increase in sadness and emotional turmoil, pushing Ezra further into a state of distress.

Driven by love for his son, Max decides to kidnap Ezra and take him on a cross-country trip to meet an old friend, Nick. This impulsive decision is motivated by hope for a better life for Ezra away from the stigmas of special education.

During their trip, Max receives news that he has been selected to perform on a well-known TV show. Excited yet torn, he decides to extend their journey to California to include this significant opportunity for his career.

Desperate to find Ezra after his kidnapping, Jenna enlists Stan’s help to track down Max and her son. Their united front reflects the lengths to which parents will go to protect their child.

As the trip progresses, Ezra begins to interact with regular people and experience new environments. This exposure allows him to break down emotional barriers, eventually allowing touches from his father for the first time.

Upon their arrival at the location of the TV show, things take a turn as police confront Max to arrest him for kidnapping. Jenna's previous actions of alerting the authorities lead to a showdown that puts the family in a difficult position.

As Max is being arrested, an unexpected act of love occurs when Ezra jumps in front of his father. This emotional gesture signifies their bond and the supportive relationship that has been nurtured during the trip, despite the turmoil.