As the narrative unfolds, the film opens with a prologue indicating that its events are fundamentally grounded in reality. The journey begins on a college campus where Gary Johnson, played by Glen Powell, lectures his students on Nietzsche's philosophies. One student's bold interpretation triggers a lively discussion about taking risks, and Gary finds himself agreeing. Yet, he soon faces the stark realization that he is not applying his own teachings in his personal life.
Gary describes his uneventful daily routine, living in tranquility with his two cats, Id and Ego. In an unexpected twist, he has been collaborating undercover with the New Orleans Police Department to capture hired assassins. Due to a controversial suspension of the typical operative Jasper, portrayed by Austin Amelio, Gary is thrust into the role of a hitman in disguise, tasked with infiltrating the circle of a specific target known only as their would-be assassin.
Initially hesitant, Gary succumbs to his growing apprehension as he prepares to embrace his alter ego "Billy." Fears of capture and the potential for violence loom large over him, yet he proceeds with the dangerous charade, meeting his target, Craig, played by Mike Markoff. To everyone’s surprise, including officers Claudette and Phil, played by Retta and Sanjay Rao respectively, Gary fully commits to his newfound persona, successfully embodying the role of a manic hitman.
As he immerses himself deeper into this clandestine world, the lines between his dual identities blur. Gary adopts various guises, skillfully navigating through treacherous contract assignments while simultaneously becoming a more engaging and effective professor. His students, inspired by his burgeoning self-assurance, flourish academically.
Despite the ethical dilemmas surrounding his actions, Gary experiences a sense of accomplishment as he witnesses the repercussions of his interventions. While some criminals face justice, others evade capture, indicating the precarious balance of his dual life. Meanwhile, amid this chaos, he becomes entranced by Madison Figueroa Masters, brilliantly portrayed by Adria Arjona. Her digital presence captures Gary’s curiosity, spurring him to dig deeper into her life under the guise of "Ron." Their initial meeting at a local diner unveils her pressing dilemma: she yearns to be rid of her husband Ray, played by Evan Holtzman, whom she feels trapped since their marriage has become increasingly intolerable.
Rather than proceed with her dangerous plans, Gary strives to persuade Madison to reconsider, suggesting that she could take the money and start fresh instead. This approach does not sit well with his colleagues Claudette and Phil, who chastise him for letting a potential client slip away.
As insecurities arise, Jasper returns to the scene, only to discover that the higher-ups in the department prefer Gary's methods over his own. Madison soon reaches out to "Ron," inviting him to a dog adoption event—though the prospect holds little allure for Gary due to his preference for cats.
During their encounter at the park, Madison shares her intentions to divorce Ray, which enhances her perception of Gary. His previous menacing persona is put aside as he engages empathetically with the children and pets. Their secret romance blooms, even as they remain wary of Gary's superiors.
A pivotal night leads to an unexpected confrontation when Gary and Madison’s date is interrupted by an intoxicated Ray, who threatens Madison. Gary intervenes, revealing his weapon, escalating tension. They attempt to enjoy dinner, but their evening is interrupted once again by the unexpected appearance of Jasper, who approaches them under the pretense of familiarity.
Then, as Gary undertakes his new assignment, he unwittingly falls under the radar of Ray, who, disguised as "Mike," implores Gary to eliminate Madison and her new lover. Instead of obeying, Gary confronts Ray at the diner, compelling him to abandon his plans and flee in fear.
The story spirals when Gary learns of Ray's demise during a botched drug deal, prompting him to visit Madison. Instead of her being shocked, she confesses to taking matters into her own hands, executing Ray after Gary informed her of his nefarious schemes. Shocked and guilty, Gary clarifies to Madison that he has never been a hitman, but a con artist crafting a web of deceit.
Madison, fuming from his confession, demands he stay out of her life. Meanwhile, detectives swiftly target Madison as the chief suspect in Ray's murder due to a significant life insurance policy benefiting her. They enlist Gary as bait, needing him to go undercover at Madison's home to draw out a confession while monitoring from a distance.
Navigating this lethal game, Gary cleverly tips Madison off, allowing her to feign innocence and avoid immediate suspicion. However, when he tries reconnecting with her, he’s met by Jasper, who aims to exploit Ray's insurance for his gain.
Welcome as always, Madison hosts Jasper, appearing friendly as she offers him a drink, but unbeknownst to him, she drugs his beverage. As Jasper begins to lose coherence, Gary seizes the moment, taking decisive action to safeguard them both. He pulls a plastic bag over Jasper's head, explaining to Madison their fabricated narrative to stage his "suicide."
In this harrowing twist, while Jasper gasps his last breaths, Gary and Madison confess their love, bracing themselves for the outcomes of their choices as law enforcement arrives to investigate.
As years pass, Gary's teaching career flourishes, leading to a larger classroom filled with enthusiastic students. His personal life blooms as well; he finds happiness alongside Madison, and they raise their two lovely children and welcome two furry companions into their lives. Amidst this idyllic setting, their daughter curiously inquires about how her parents initially crossed paths. In response, Gary and Madison craft an enchanting tale detailing their serendipitous meeting at a quaint café, where an instant connection altered the course of their lives.
Ultimately, the film pays homage to the real-life Gary Johnson (rest in peace), a committed college educator, war veteran, animal advocate, and a staunch believer in non-violence who lived life without ever taking a life. This remarkable legacy stands as a testimony to his steadfast spirit.
