Rocket Science

Fifteen-year-old Hal Hefner navigates a tumultuous home environment in Plainsboro, New Jersey. His older brother Earl struggles with obsessive-compulsive habits, while his father's departure after a devastating argument leaves Hal feeling abandoned.

Hal meets Ginny Ryerson on the school bus, where she introduces herself as a charismatic member of the debate team. She invites him to take the place of her former partner, Ben, who dropped out of school, sparking a new opportunity for Hal.

As Ginny and Hal prepare for their upcoming debate competition, they tackle a challenging topic regarding sexual abstinence education. However, Hal's stutter poses significant challenges during practice, creating tension and doubt about their chances.

Overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, Hal hides in a janitorial closet during practice, unable to cope with his stutter. Ginny discovers him there, and they share a tender moment that ends with a hopeful kiss, although Ginny later distances herself.

On the day of the debate tournament, Hal learns from Coach Lumbly that Ginny has transferred to a rival school, leaving him without a partner. Paired with Heston in her absence, Hal struggles with his speech, leading to a disappointing performance.

After the tournament, Hal discovers that Ginny’s recruitment was merely a prank to sabotage their school's chances of winning. Heartbroken and frustrated, Hal steals tequila from Earl and seeks revenge by vandalizing Ginny's property.

As the school year continues, Hal's mother ends her relationship with Heston's father, prompting Hal to reach out to Ginny. He attempts to return the stolen trophy, but Ginny rebuffs his apology, leaving Hal feeling rejected once again.

Determined to improve his situation, Hal travels to Trenton to find Ben, Ginny's former debate partner. He persuades Ben to join him for the upcoming Policy Debate Championships as a homeschool team, reigniting his hope.

Ben assists Hal in creating a new speech that matches the tune of 'The Battle Hymn of the Republic'. This creative approach aims to help Hal cope with his stutter while preparing for the debatable competition, fostering a sense of camaraderie.

During the Policy Debate Championships, Hal and Ben face disqualification due to not being actual homeschoolers. Although Ben views their journey as rewarding, Hal grapples with feelings of frustration and loss, questioning their efforts.

Before he departs, Hal seeks out Ginny one last time to express his feelings and hopes for the future. Their conversation reveals Ginny's internal conflict about her choices and the impact on their relationship, leaving Hal with mixed emotions.

With a renewed sense of determination, Hal spends the evening at a nearby beach, reflecting on his journey. His father arrives to pick him up, and Hal tries to articulate a heartfelt realization about love and life's complexities, despite his ongoing struggle with his stutter.