In a dystopian future, societal norms mandate rigorous regulations on parenthood, driven by the dire consequences of environmental collapse and resource scarcity. This has led to the implementation of a demanding seven-day assessment for those wishing to become parents, designed to evaluate their fitness for raising children. At the heart of this gripping narrative are Mia, played by Elizabeth Olsen, and Aaryan, portrayed by Himesh Patel, a married couple isolated within a high-tech dome as they yearn for the joys of parenthood.
Mia is a passionate botanist engaged in the challenging task of nurturing plant life in a world where nature has been ravaged. Meanwhile, Aaryan's inventive spirit shines through his designs of virtual reality pets, which serve as a substitute for the genuine animals that no longer exist. Their aspirations are soon challenged when Virginia, a government-appointed assessor played by Alicia Vikander, arrives at their doorstep. Virginia's stoic demeanor masks her true intentions as she announces her plan to live with the couple for the next seven days in order to scrutinize their potential as caregivers.
The assessment takes a drastic turn when Virginia employs unconventional and at times disturbing techniques, which push the couple to their limits. By assuming the role of a child, she forces Mia and Aaryan to face their hidden fears and personal struggles, leading to intense confrontations and unforeseen emotional revelations.
One particularly telling moment emerges during a dinner party orchestrated by Virginia, where the couple’s ability to navigate social pressure becomes evident, revealing their differences in coping strategies and heightened tensions. As doubts about their readiness surface, Virginia's invasive methods further fracture their relationship.
When Mia leaves to tend to her sister, who is supposedly in the hospital, Virginia seizes the opportunity to commit a grave betrayal, resulting in a devastating twist when Mia learns upon her return that the hospital call was merely a mix-up. The drama escalates when Virginia, in a reckless turn of events, destroys Mia’s cherished greenhouse. Mia’s decision to rescue Virginia from the aftermath of the fire reveals both her compassion and the complex dynamics of their relationship.
Virginia ultimately decides to fail Mia and Aaryan without providing any justification, and in a moment of vulnerability, Aaryan confesses his transgressions. His attempt to bridge the emotional chasm is symbolized by the creation of a simulated baby, yet this effort is met with rejection from Mia, deepening their rift.
As the story unfolds, Mia embarks on a quest to find Virginia, uncovering the unsettling truth about the assessment process and its systemic failures. With no couples achieving success in the past six years, Virginia’s own motivations become clear—her opportunity to have a child hinges on the destruction of others’ hopes. She explains that the assessment was never about real potential but a cruel illusion of possibility.
In a tragic turn, Virginia faces her own demons as she prepares to evaluate another couple, ultimately choosing to end her life amid the pervasive despair of their world. It is against this backdrop of grief and loss that Mia resolves to escape the oppressive new society, seeking solace in the Old World where her mother, a defiant critic of the current regime, had been exiled. Meanwhile, Aaryan continues to grapple with his reality, creating simulated versions of their lost dreams and a child growing up in an artificial world.
