Monstrous

In the 1950s, Laura Butler and her son Cody embark on a journey to a secluded home in California, seeking refuge from Laura's abusive ex-husband. This move symbolizes a fresh start, but also introduces them to new challenges that will test their resilience.

As Laura tries to establish a routine, she balances daily tasks like sending Cody to school, preparing lunches, and working at a typing job. However, her attempts at normalcy are clouded by the lingering threat of her ex-husband's return.

Cody starts experiencing terror at night from a mysterious entity that haunts him. He names this frightening presence the 'pretty lady from the lake,' creating a sense of eerie familiarity that deepens his fears and withdraws him from his mother.

Cody's emotional state worsens as he expresses a strong desire to return to their old home, leading to arguments with Laura. Despite her efforts to reassure him, Cody's sadness heightens as his birthday approaches, revealing deeper issues of grief and loneliness.

In an effort to uplift Cody's spirits, Laura organizes a birthday party and sends out invitations to his classmates. They decorate their home with balloons, hoping to create a joyful atmosphere, but Cody remains skeptical about anyone attending.

The day of Cody's birthday arrives, but to Laura's dismay, not a single guest comes to the party. Overcome with disappointment and feeling hopeless, Laura turns to alcohol to cope with her growing despair, leading her to quit her job.

In a frantic search for Cody after he fails to return home, Laura rushes to his school. Her heart sinks as she discovers he is missing, prompting her to seek assistance from the police, indicating a deepening crisis.

At the police station, a woman makes Laura recall an incident from the past year when Cody had a near-drowning accident. Reliving the tragic moment adds to Laura's torment as she recounts the painful details of that day, forever etched in her memory.

Returning home, Laura is confronted by the haunting sight of Cody waiting for her. He begs her to let him go, leading Laura to a shocking realization; Cody had died in the accident, and her current life was merely a delusion crafted from her grief.

As the reality of her son's death sinks in, Laura battles her emotions, ultimately choosing to allow Cody to go with the 'pretty lady in the lake.' This decision brings her a long-awaited sense of peace, allowing her to confront her grief and guilt.

With sorrowful acceptance, Laura leaves her California home, symbolizing a significant step towards healing. This decision to let go represents her readiness to face a future without Cody, moving past her delusions and into reality.