Tenderness

The film opens with the release of juvenile murderer Eric Poole, who has served time for the tragic murder of a young girl. Now 18, Poole steps back into the outside world, facing the haunting memories of his past and the scrutiny of those around him.

Detective Cristofuoro, highly skeptical of Poole's rehabilitation, starts monitoring him closely. Determined to uncover whether Poole poses a real threat of reoffending, Cristofuoro embarks on an intense mission to shadow him as he navigates his new life.

Despite the tension surrounding his release, Poole decides to take a seemingly harmless road trip upstate. This journey symbolizes his attempt to regain control over his life, but it also raises the stakes as he becomes the focus of Cristofuoro's investigation.

During his road trip, Poole encounters a young girl named Lori, who is inexplicably drawn to him. Their initial interaction hints at a complicated relationship that will become central to the unfolding drama and psychological tension.

As Poole and Lori spend time together, her fascination with him deepens, despite the troubling past that surrounds him. This budding yet precarious relationship begins to blur the lines between innocence and danger, leaving both characters vulnerable.

The shadows of Poole's dark history start to loom larger as he grapples with his past actions. Memories of the murder he committed begin to haunt him, causing inner turmoil and uncertainty about his future.

As Cristofuoro continues his surveillance, he grows increasingly convinced that Poole may revert back to his violent ways. He faces mounting pressure to obtain evidence that would justify his suspicions about Poole's risk to society.

Lori starts to question whether she might have witnessed the murder years ago, piecing together fragmented memories. This revelation adds a layer of intrigue to her relationship with Poole and makes her a pivotal character in the unfolding drama.

As Poole and Lori's relationship intensifies, the tension escalates between Poole's past and present. Their interactions become fraught with danger, as outside forces, including Cristofuoro, close in on them.

Faced with mounting pressure and looming revelations, Poole and Lori embark on a desperate flight. This compelling escape tests not only their bond but the very morality of their circumstances and the truth of Poole's intentions.

The narrative escalates into a confrontation where Poole must reckon with his violent past and the potential consequences. As they face external threats, the psychological implications of their choices become increasingly evident.

As secrets are revealed, the truth about Poole's character begins to unravel. The audience is left questioning whether he is truly the monster he is perceived to be or a victim of circumstance shaped by his traumatic past.

The film reaches its climax with a final confrontation that pits Poole against those who wish to see him punished. The intensity of emotions runs high as the story delves into themes of obsession, innocence, and redemption.

In the wake of the climactic events, the narrative draws to a close, reflecting on the complex interplay of guilt, innocence, and the scars left by one's past. The fate of Poole and Lori remains uncertain, leaving the audience with lingering questions.