Self Reliance

The film begins by showcasing Thomas Walcott's monotonous and isolated life. He follows a daily routine of waking up, exercising, and spending solitary evenings at a bar, underscoring his self-imposed solitude.

One night after leaving the bar, Thomas has a surprising encounter with Andy Samberg, who appears in a limousine. Andy reveals that he has been looking for Thomas to discuss a unique opportunity, sparking intrigue in Thomas.

Despite initial hesitation, Thomas accepts Andy’s invitation into the limousine. Inside, Andy presents a script containing private details about Thomas’s life, explaining that they have been monitoring him for a special endeavor.

Andy presents Thomas with an ultimatum: return to his ordinary life or embrace a chance for excitement. Choosing the latter, Thomas makes a bold declaration, craving a departure from his stagnant existence.

Upon reaching a warehouse marked by a distinctive crimson door, Thomas realizes that Andy will not be accompanying him further. After an emotional farewell, Thomas enters the warehouse, drawn by an eerie silence.

Inside the warehouse, Thomas meets two mysterious figures who inform him about a brutal reality show on the Dark Web. He learns he must survive for 30 days without dying to win a $1 million prize, knowing every action is monitored.

Thomas tries to share his bizarre experiences with his family, but they dismiss his claims as mere cries for attention. Frustrated by their disbelief, he turns to Craigslist to find people who might empathize with his predicament.

As paranoia sets in, Thomas discovers a hidden camera in his house, reinforcing his fears. When he confides in his nurse mother about his suspicions, she dismisses them, aggravating Thomas’s feelings of isolation.

In his quest for companionship, Thomas invites his brother-in-law to stay overnight. Their fragile relationship is tested by strange happenings, leading Thomas to strike an unexpected friendship with a homeless man named James.

As Thomas's family objects to James staying with them, he asserts his right to have him around as long as he’s employed. However, after losing his job, Thomas faces eviction, further complicating his already precarious situation.

One evening, Thomas receives an intriguing Craigslist message that resonates with his experiences. He decides to meet Maddy the next day at 10:30 AM, promising to wear his banana jacket for identification.

At the rendezvous, Thomas finds that Maddy isn't wearing the banana jacket as promised but a yellow shirt. After confirming her identity, they agree to spend the day together, cautiously exploring their connection.

During their day together, Maddy suggests confronting Thomas’s ex, Theresa, for closure. This candid discussion reveals insights into Thomas’s past relationship, challenging him to rethink his stagnant lifestyle.

As the 30-day challenge progresses, Thomas and Maddy continue to deepen their connection, sharing vulnerabilities and experiences. Their bond grows stronger, but the presence of the production team looms ominously over them.

As tensions rise, Thomas faces a surprising family intervention concerning the toll the reality show has taken on him. In navigating these confrontations, he learns the absurd purpose of the show and ultimately experiences moments of personal growth.

In the film's conclusion, Thomas comes to terms with his past, examines his family relationships, and reevaluates connections. The experience leaves him hopeful for the future, poised at the intersection of reality and performance.