Land of Plenty

Lana, an American girl, returns to Los Angeles after an extended stay in the West Bank. Her experiences abroad have shaped her worldview, which is now infused with empathy towards those affected by war and poverty.

Upon arriving in Los Angeles, Lana seeks to reconnect with her last remaining family member in the United States, her uncle Paul. Their relationship is strained, as Paul struggles with his memories as a Vietnam veteran.

Paul, haunted by his past experiences in Vietnam, has developed a compulsive need to surveil individuals who appear to be of Arab descent. His paranoia is rooted in a fear that they may pose a threat to America following the events of 9/11.

Lana begins her commitment to a local homeless mission in Los Angeles, building connections within this community. Through her work, she aims to understand the struggles of those living in poverty while maintaining a critical outlook on her own life experiences.

As Lana engages with the mission's community, she reflects on the stark differences between America and the impoverished regions she witnessed overseas. This clash of perspectives highlights her empathy for those who suffer in silence.

The narrative takes a dramatic turn when a young Pakistani man is murdered just outside the homeless mission. This tragic event sends shockwaves through the community and deeply affects Lana as she contemplates the implications of this violence.

In the wake of the murder, Lana and Paul make the difficult decision to return the young man's body to his grieving family. This undertaking becomes a pivotal moment that unites them and forces them to confront their individual fears and biases.

Lana and Paul embark on their journey, traveling to the young man's home. This road trip becomes not only a logistical task but also a metaphorical journey into their own conflicting beliefs and experiences.

During their travels, Lana and Paul share stories that reveal the pain each has endured. These conversations allow them to understand each other's struggles better and forge a fragile bond between their contrasting realities.

Upon reaching the home of the young man's family, Lana and Paul witness the deep sorrow caused by the loss. This experience shifts their perspectives and challenges their preconceived notions about their own lives and the lives of others.

The arrival at the family home serves as a confrontation of Paul's fears and biases. He begins to realize the detrimental impact that his surveillance mentality has on his understanding of others.

As the journey progresses, Lana and Paul find common ground in their empathy towards others' suffering. They reflect on the broader implications of war, violence, and societal division, ultimately leading to a more profound understanding of each other.

By the end of their journey, both Lana and Paul have undergone significant transformations. They leave with altered perspectives, recognizing the shared humanity within their experiences, regardless of their backgrounds.

The experiences shared during the journey create lasting changes in Lana and Paul. They return to their lives in Los Angeles with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to understanding and helping others from diverse backgrounds.