Mr. Harrigan's Phone

In 2003, a young Craig forges an unexpected friendship with retired businessman John Harrigan after the tragic passing of his mother. Initially tasked with reading to Harrigan three times a week, their bond begins to grow as they find solace in each other's company.

Five years later, Craig is now a teenager, and his relationship with Harrigan deepens into a genuine friendship. They share moments of laughter and wisdom, which help Craig navigate his early adolescent challenges.

As Craig begins high school, he meets his supportive teacher, Ms. Hart, who guides him through the struggles of being targeted by school bully Kenny Yankovich. Ms. Hart's encouragement becomes a beacon of hope during Craig's challenging times.

Craig receives a lottery ticket as a gift from Harrigan and is ecstatic when it wins $3,000. Celebrating this newfound fortune, he decides to buy Harrigan an iPhone for Christmas, eager to introduce him to new technology.

Initially hesitant about using his new iPhone, Harrigan gradually discovers the joy of modern technology. This new connection allows the two friends to communicate in ways they had not before, further strengthening their bond.

The happiness of Craig and Harrigan is cut short when Harrigan passes away, leaving Craig devastated. During the funeral, in a heartfelt act of love, Craig sneaks Harrigan's phone into the coffin as a final tribute.

After the funeral, Craig learns about his inheritance from Harrigan's will, which includes a trust fund of $800,000. This substantial amount is intended to support Craig in pursuing his education and writing dreams.

Craig calls Harrigan's phone to express his gratitude and is shocked when he receives an unexpected text the following day. His father brushes it off as a glitch, but Craig begins to wonder if there might be more to the messages.

As Craig navigates high school life, he attends a dance with his crush, but later faces Kenny again, who threatens him regarding supposed betrayals. Kenny's aggressive behavior ultimately leads to his expulsion, highlighting the tension in Craig's life.

Feeling overwhelmed, Craig calls Harrigan's phone to share his fears and longing for advice, stating, 'I wish that you were here just to give me some advice.' The very next day, Kenny is found dead from a fall, leaving Craig in shock at the eerie coincidence.

In an attempt to escape the chaos in his life, Craig upgrades his phone at an Apple store, moving on from his old device. He graduates high school and heads to Boston for college, aiming to study journalism and start anew.

Craig's newfound solace is shattered when he learns that Ms. Hart has tragically died in a car accident caused by drunk driver Dean Whitmore. The news devastates him, especially as it highlights the injustices in the world.

Fueled by anger over Ms. Hart's death, Craig uses his old phone to send a harsh message to Harrigan, wishing death upon Whitmore. To his disbelief, he soon learns that the driver has died under mysterious circumstances.

Driven by curiosity and a need for answers, Craig investigates the rehab center where Dean Whitmore was sent. He uncovers unsettling details that link Whitmore's death to his beloved teacher, causing Craig to question the nature of justice.

Struggling with grief, Craig visits the town quarry, contemplating his troubled past. Ultimately, he chooses to cast his phone into the water, symbolizing his desire to leave behind his burdens and embrace the uncertainty of the future.