In 1985, Brian Jackson finds himself as a first-year university student engrossed in English Literature, ever eager to absorb knowledge. Having grown up in a working-class background in Southend-on-Sea, he has always been a fan of the TV quiz show University Challenge, famous for its motto, > "Your starter for 10...". Upon his arrival at Bristol University, Brian attends a gathering where he meets the politically-aware Jewish student, Rebecca, instantly feeling a profound connection. Eager to join the University Challenge team, he faces disappointment when his good-hearted act of helping Alice, a dramatic student, leads to his own disqualification from the quiz team.
Caught in a web of romantic confusion, Brian is drawn to the captivating Alice, even as she shows signs of wanting to remain friends. As the semester kicks off, unexpected luck comes his way when a team member falls ill, allowing him a chance to join the quiz team. The captain, Patrick, a rather arrogant post-graduate in mechanical engineering, has been in a position of leadership despite a lack of success on the show. Joining the team is (Lucy), an American medical student from Minneapolis, bringing her unique perspective. Throughout this journey, Brian demonstrates his deep trivia insight, and his increased presence leads Alice to invite him to her family’s cottage in Norfolk for Christmas.
However, a disastrous turn occurs when Brian, attempting to impress Alice, ends up under the influence during an awkward family gathering, leading to unfortunate embarrassment. Returning to Bristol for the holiday, he fortuitously runs into Rebecca again. Their mutual attraction reignites, but an ill-timed slip where Brian mistakenly calls her "Alice" upsets her, and he inadvertently ruins the moment. As Brian seeks guidance from his Southend friend Spencer, who's entangled in legal troubles, he invites him to a party just before his court date.
At the party, tensions flare when Patrick, looking down on Spencer's background, provokes a confrontation that disrupts the festivities. Following this, Brian tries to mend fences with Rebecca, but she senses his lingering affection for Alice and nudges him to express his feelings. Summoning his courage, he goes to Alice's flat to confess his love but discovers that Spencer has been invited back after his spirited defense at the party, leaving Brian feeling betrayed.
Plagued by sadness, Brian struggles to focus on his studies and University Challenge practice, jeopardizing his academic future. Frustrated, Patrick chastises him before their crucial quiz match, prompting Brian to lash out. In a moment of chaos, he knocks himself out with a headbutt, only to be revived by Rebecca just in time for the show.
As the competition begins, Brian's nerves seem to wane, allowing him to shine with his knowledge. However, fate takes a turn when he inadvertently buzzes in with the answer to a question he had previously read, leading to disqualification for his team.
Returning home disheartened, Brian isolates himself until Spencer reaches out, sharing positive news and expressing his pride in Brian's ambition. Motivated by this support, Brian recommits to his studies and heads back to Bristol*, resolving to seek out Rebecca*. He finds her participating in a political demonstration, takes a leap of faith, and asks if she can forgive him for his past mistakes. Her reply is clear, and in a moment of genuine connection, they share a kiss, hinting at the possibilities of a new beginning.
