Billy Kirkland, portrayed by Bobby Coleman, is a spirited 10-year-old boy battling cancer, who believes his time is extremely limited. He is accompanied by two unique friends, Lucas Lamb, played by Christian Martyn, and Howard Garvey, interpreted by Bobb'e J. Thompson. Together, they navigate the complexities of childhood, all while yearning to leave an unforgettable mark on the world around them. Determined to achieve some form of legacy, the trio devises a plan to gain fame, but they are met with various obstacles, including the relentless neighborhood bullies who threaten their aspirations.
In a burst of creativity, Billy and his friends embark on an ambitious project: to create the record for the most snowmen built in a single day. However, their initial attempt falls flat when they realize they lack the necessary manpower. Undeterred, the boys launch a campaign to gather support, distributing flyers and posting notices around their school. One pivotal moment occurs when Billy delivers an inspiring speech in the cafeteria, which catches the attention of their peers. The campaign garners momentum, eventually capturing the ear of the Mayor, who enlists the support of their Principal, culminating in a feature on a local news channel.
As the day of the event arrives, the boys successfully build a considerable number of snowmen, but unfortunately, a warm spell begins to cause their creations to melt just as the Mayor and news reporters are set to arrive. In a moment of quick thinking, Billy persuades the Mayor to postpone the final count, allowing them more time to rectify the situation. However, trouble looms as their bully, Jason Bound, wreaks havoc, knocking over many of their precious snowmen and cornering Billy and his friends. Fortunately, a dramatic turn of events occurs as the rest of the school rallies around Billy in support during a snowball fight. The spirited day takes a dark turn when Jason accidentally knocks Lucas down, resulting in injury.
Amid the unfolding chaos, Billy's father, Reggie Kirkland, steps in after witnessing his son's television appearance, revealing that Billy is not as gravely ill as anticipated. This news leads to the cancellation of the event, leaving Billy and his friends feeling disheartened. Seeking solace, the boys find themselves in a park discussing their situation. Trouble soon finds them again when Jason, in a fit of aggression, begins to threaten them. In a moment of recklessness, Billy stands on a chunk of ice that eventually gives way, plunging him beneath the surface.
As the danger increases, Howard rushes to seek help while Lucas valiantly attempts to save Billy. Surprised by the gravity of their circumstances, Jason ultimately helps, and with teamwork, they manage to free both boys. Unfortunately, in the process, Lucas loses his footing and falls into the frigid water as well. Both boys lose consciousness, leaving Jason to call for help. Howard returns with their fathers, who swiftly take them to the hospital, where they both receive life-saving care.
While recuperating in the hospital, the boys watch news segments reporting on the resurgence of the snowman-building efforts, filled with support from students across different schools. Inspired by this newfound motivation, Billy, Lucas, and Howard soon join the larger effort, ultimately breaking the world record. Through their heartwarming journey, they discover that the true legacy they leave behind is not just about records or fame, but rather the enduring power of friendship.
