The Great Buck Howard

Recent law school dropout Troy Gable arrives in Los Angeles, searching for a job to escape his mundane existence. His hopes are piqued when he spots a personal assistant position for a mentalist in a local newspaper.

Troy attends an interview at a local restaurant where he meets the eccentric and washed-up mentalist, Buck Howard. Despite his initial skepticism, Troy is captivated by Buck's charisma and decides to take the job.

Troy joins Buck on the road, starting a tour that takes them to small towns and underwhelming venues. As they perform for half-empty houses, Troy begins to understand the joy Buck finds in connecting with local audiences.

Troy's father discovers that his son is no longer in law school but instead working for Buck. After an explosive confrontation, Troy is torn between pleasing his father and pursuing his newfound excitement.

Buck announces plans for a big comeback event in Cincinnati, hiring an ambitious New York PR firm to promote it. Troy feels a mix of excitement and pressure as he prepares for this pivotal night.

The junior publicist Valerie arrives and initially disappoints Buck, who expected a more seasoned professional. However, she quickly bonds with Troy, leading to an unexpected romantic night together.

On the day of Buck's record-setting attempt to put an entire room to sleep, they gather eager participants and reporters. However, chaos ensues when reporters leave to cover a breaking news story, leaving Buck without an audience.

After successfully executing his trick but without any media coverage, Buck's frustration boils over. Following a confrontation with Valerie about the lack of coverage, he collapses, leaving Troy shocked and concerned.

In the hospital, Buck acknowledges the end of his career. However, as they watch the news, they learn that, despite no media presence, the story of Buck's trick has spread, reviving his fame.

With a surge of renewed interest, Buck is back in the spotlight, appearing on magazine covers and talk shows. However, his excitement is short-lived as his planned Tonight Show appearance is canceled.

Buck decides to move to Las Vegas, retooling his act for a glitzier audience. However, during the performance, he struggles to adapt and, for the first time, cannot find the money in his signature trick.

Back in Los Angeles, Troy is offered a job as a writer's assistant on a television show thanks to Valerie's efforts. Yet he finds himself longing for the excitement and camaraderie he experienced with Buck.

Troy discovers Buck is performing at a local community arts center and attends the show. Observing as an audience member, he realizes Buck shines best in an intimate setting with fans who appreciate him.

During the performance, Buck addresses the rumors of needing an accomplice during his money-finding trick. Troy watches nervously as Buck interacts with the crowd, unsure if he can replicate his earlier success.

In an emotional finale, Buck manages to perform his trick successfully once again, this time with an appreciative audience. Troy feels a surge of pride and relief as Buck establishes himself in his rightful place.