Latter Days

Elder Aaron Davis arrives in the vibrant streets of Los Angeles from Pocatello, Idaho, ready to embark on his mission. He joins a group of missionaries dedicated to spreading their faith, unaware of the life-altering experiences that await him.

Aaron's fellow missionaries reside near Christian Markelli and his roommate Julie, both of whom work at a chic restaurant called Lila's. This proximity sets the stage for intertwining lives and unexpected friendships.

In a bold move, Christian wagers with his fellow missionaries that he can seduce one of them, specifically targeting Aaron. He misinterprets Aaron’s innocence as a sign of repressed feelings, igniting his interest.

After Christian sustains an injury, Aaron takes it upon himself to nurse him back to health. This act of care leads to a series of emotionally charged encounters that deepen their connection, complicating their lives.

As they grow closer, Aaron expresses his discomfort with Christian's belief that sex can be devoid of meaning. This contention culminates in a heated argument, forcing Christian to confront his views on relationships.

Following the fight, Christian is moved to volunteer at a charity that provides meals for those affected by AIDS. Through this work, he develops a meaningful bond with a recipient, prompting him to reflect on his priorities.

Amidst his rising connection with Christian, Aaron starts having insightful discussions with Lila, unaware of her ties to Christian. These conversations start to shape his understanding of love and faith.

Aaron's life takes a drastic turn when fellow missionary Paul Ryder suffers a cycling accident. This event deeply unsettles Aaron, leading him to seek solace in Christian’s company, resulting in an unexpected kiss.

At the airport, Christian waits excitedly for Aaron's arrival. Their reunion quickly turns into an open confession of feelings, but a snowstorm forces them to share a night together in a motel, intensifying their relationship.

Following their night together, Aaron faces backlash from his family, resulting in his excommunication from the church. His father's harsh scolding and mother's urging for forgiveness plunge Aaron into deeper emotional turmoil.

Christian, unaware of Aaron's struggles, mistakenly believes that Aaron has taken his own life. Gripped by grief, he returns to Idaho and attempts to return Aaron's pocket watch to his mother, only to learn that Aaron is alive.

Meanwhile, Julie adapts Christian’s journal entries into a song, provoking anger when Christian discovers what she has done. This incident reaches Aaron, who overhears the lyrics and feels inspired to reconnect with Christian.

When Aaron arrives at Christian's apartment, he is met with heartbreak as a stranger answers the door, leading him to believe Christian has moved on. In his despair, he confides in Lila about his struggles.

Just as Aaron's situation seems hopeless, Christian arrives and the two share an emotional reunion. Their feelings reignite, and they prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving surrounded by loved ones, reaffirming their bond.

As the two reconnect, Lila offers a touching reminder of support and love, declaring that regardless of their paths, they will always have a place at her table. This sentiment symbolizes the acceptance they both long for.