The film opens with a series of poignant images depicting African and Middle Eastern communities grappling with turmoil. This captivating work is produced by photographer Lee, who has returned to the United States after her travels. Recently, she and her boyfriend John have parted ways, though Lee finds herself in need of her photography equipment still in his possession. Despite her efforts to reach out to him, he remains unresponsive. Concerned, she ventures to his home only to find it seemingly deserted, with signs of neglect and untouched food suggesting something sinister may have transpired. Seeking help, she turns to the police, where Sgt. Goodman appears to take her situation seriously and pledges to investigate thoroughly.
As the narrative unfolds, we witness Lee attending an exhibit showcasing her photography. Complications arise in her relationship with her daughter Jessie, who is also pursuing a career in photography but focuses on artistic expression rather than the impactful storytelling that defines Lee's work. Their bond is strained, rooted in Lee's past absence during Jessie's upbringing. Adding to the emotional complexity, Lee's father, Malik, now her ex-husband, maintains a cordial rapport with her, despite their changed circumstances.
The photographs serve as visceral reminders of past traumas, culminating in Lee's admission to a mental institution after overwhelming stress. The story provides a glimpse into her past life, revealing that four months earlier, she was recuperating in a rehabilitation center following a tragic bombing in Somalia, where she encountered John—who was kind and supportive during their shared recovery.
As the plot transitions back to the present, we meet Peter, a lawyer undergoing therapy alongside Lee, both under the care of Dr. Bloom. Their paths converge as Lee exits the hospital, leading her to a storage facility where John worked, and where she finds Thomas, a homeless man living nearby. Initially, Lee and John's relationship blossoms through her photography, but complications soon emerge, mirroring the instability in her life.
As Lee progresses through her therapy, she becomes increasingly troubled by a haunting memory—did her actions inadvertently cause John's demise? This uncertainty casts a shadow over her developing friendship with Peter, who bears a resemblance to John, albeit without facial hair, prompting an underlying connection that feels both comforting and unsettling.
Throughout the film, the web of Lee’s relational struggles intensifies, both in past and present, especially with Jessie. The narrative expertly revisits scenes with additional details revealed upon each iteration, ultimately guiding viewers toward unexpected revelations that may challenge their earlier assumptions.
By blending these rich narratives, the film paints a multi-layered portrait of trauma, relationships, and the search for redemption.
