Ode to Joy (2019) Plot Summary Explained

Release, runtime and language

2019 · 97 min · English

Echo score 52

#16,239 10

Directed by

Jason Winer

Starring

Martin Freeman, Morena Baccarin, Melissa Rauch, Jake Lacy, Alex Perez, Adam Shapiro

Brooklyn librarian Charlie suffers from cataplexy, a rare condition that causes paralysis when he experiences joy. To manage his condition, he carefully avoids pleasure and lives a restrained life. However, his routine is disrupted when he encounters Francesca, a vibrant and unconventional woman. Charlie is then forced to confront his cautious approach to life and consider whether the risk of experiencing joy—and the potential for cataplectic episodes—is worth the chance at love and happiness.