Life as a House

George Monroe finds himself living a solitary life at his family's coastal sanctuary, a place untouched by time. His intentional disconnection from the modern world has left him estranged from the architecture firm that was once his haven.

After the principal owner of his firm refuses to let him keep cherished models, George enters a profound emotional crisis. In a fit of frustration, he destroys all but one model before leaving the firm, feeling overwhelmed by despair.

Overcome by despair, George collapses and requires urgent medical attention. Subsequent tests reveal that he is suffering from advanced-stage cancer, a diagnosis that forces him to confront his mortality and his unresolved past.

Determined to reclaim control, George decides to tear down the family shack and construct a new home, symbolizing his fight for life. To execute this plan, he reaches out to his estranged son, Sam, seeking his help.

Sam is initially hesitant to assist George due to deep resentments regarding his father's secretive nature about his illness. This hesitancy leads Sam into a spiral of self-destructive choices, including a risky encounter with prostitution.

Amidst his turmoil, Sam pilfers Vicodin from George, signaling deeper issues of dependency and desperation. This act highlights the strained relationship and the emotional burden they both carry.

As construction begins on the new home, Robin re-enters George's life, stirring old emotions and memories of their past. Her presence rekindles a flicker of connection between the estranged couple as they navigate their complex relationship.

Alyssa, Sam's neighbor, and classmate, joins the construction effort, bringing youthful energy and enthusiasm. Meanwhile, local police officer Kurt Walker, a childhood friend of George, offers his skills to aid in the rebuild.

Throughout the construction process, George and Sam begin to mend their broken relationship, learning to communicate and understand each other better. However, the truth about George's terminal illness creates tension and emotional upheaval.

Neighbor David Dokos attempts to stop construction due to height regulation issues, invoking tension in the community. Sam, recognizing an opportunity, blackmails Dokos to ensure the project moves forward, showcasing his evolving character.

In a touching scene, Sam decorates the new house with Christmas lights, igniting a sense of hope and connection. He reveals the vibrant display to George in the hospital, bringing warmth amid the chilling reality of George's illness.

As George's health declines, he is surrounded by Robin during his last moments. The poignant stillness marks the end of his struggle, leaving behind unfinished business and unresolved emotions.

Upon George's passing, Sam wrestles with his emotions and the burden of legacy. He inherits the property linked to his family's history, compelling him to reflect on his relationship with his father.

In a surprising turn, Sam decides to gift the property to a woman who had suffered due to his grandfather's actions. This transformative act serves as a means of forgiveness, reshaping both their lives and marking a new chapter for Sam.