Mope

The film opens with a poignant quote from the Bible, Nahum 3:6, setting a somber tone for the narrative. The audience is then introduced to a bloody chimp wandering through a chaotic sitcom set, an image that foreshadows later significant events in the story.

We meet Otis Haywood Sr. and his son, OJ, as they care for the horses at Haywood's Hollywood Horses. Their life takes a turn when ominous news surrounds them about the disappearance of two hikers, foreshadowing the upcoming chaos.

The tranquility of the ranch is shattered when the electricity fails and screams surround them. Tragically, a freak accident occurs when a coin pierces Otis Sr.'s eye, leading to his unintended death, leaving OJ lost and distraught.

After the tragic event, OJ returns to the ranch only to discover a disturbing sight: a sinister key embedded in one of their horses. This eerie moment hints at the dark events that are yet to unfold.

With the credits rolling, the screen shows a historical moment: the first moving image of a Black man riding a horse. OJ learns that their great-great-great grandfather was part of this historical moment, connecting the past to their present struggles.

Six months later, OJ awaits his sister Emerald on a film set where their horse Lucky is scheduled for a commercial. During this time, Em shares the family history that links their lineage to the groundbreaking cinematic moment, but soon their job takes a downturn.

Unfortunately, the film crew dismisses the Haywoods’ knowledge of horse handling, leading to their dismissal from the set. The replacement of Lucky with a VFX horse illustrates the struggles of their ranch and foreshadows future desperation.

Facing financial trouble, the siblings visit Ricky 'Jupe' Park at his amusement park, Jupiter's Claim, hoping to sell Lucky. Jupe's recounting of a traumatic childhood incident with a chimp named Gordy adds depth to his character and raises questions about past traumas.

As night falls, Em reminisces about training her horse, Jean Jacket, when she notices Ghost acting strangely. This moment marks the beginning of a series of unexplained supernatural occurrences on the ranch.

While investigating the unusual behavior of Ghost, OJ notices mysterious lights and a UFO soaring over the ranch. He shares his discovery with Em, prompting them to set up cameras to capture evidence of the otherworldly presence.

The siblings purchase several cameras to document UFO sightings, and with the help of Angel Torres from Fry's Electronics, they prepare their equipment. Em also decides to use a decoy horse, leading to unexpected complications with Jupe.

As OJ attempts to capture footage, he encounters what he believes to be alien figures, only to realize they are Jupe's children playing pranks. A significant turning point occurs when the UFO descends, resulting in the loss of their decoy horse.

In a flashback to 1998, Jupe's traumatic encounter with a distressed chimp named Gordy is revealed, showcasing the chaos that ensues. This incident continues to haunt him, adding layers to his character as he prepares for another show at Jupiter's Claim.

OJ discovers a promotional flyer for an event at Jupiter's Claim, indicating Jupe's plans to exploit Lucky. The siblings plot a daring rescue, aware of the alien presence that threatens them all.

During Jupe's event, as the UFO looms menacingly overhead, the siblings put their plan into action with high stakes. OJ's bravery shines as they work together to confront the alien entity, culminating in Em capturing a historic photograph that symbolizes their triumph.