The Mule

Earl Stone, an elderly daylily grower, receives yet another award for his exquisite flowers, showing off his dedication and passion for gardening. This moment reflects his pride and serves as a juxtaposition to his strained family relationships.

Iris, Earl's daughter, is busy preparing for her second wedding, highlighting her hope for a brighter future. Despite the celebration, the tension between her and Earl is palpable as she recalls his disappointing past.

Earl fails to show up for Ginny's birthday celebration, disappointing both his daughter Iris and granddaughter Ginny once more. This reinforces his longstanding pattern of letting down his family and the strains in their relationships.

Ten years later, Earl's flower business has gone bankrupt, leading to foreclosure on his home. This financial desperation drives him to seek out alternative, risky employment opportunities.

At Ginny's birthday party, one of her friends hands Earl a business card for a well-paying driving job that requires no questions asked. Earl, recognizing his need for cash, decides to pursue this dubious opportunity.

Earl arrives at a garage where he meets intimidating figures who stuff a duffel bag into his truck and give him a cell phone for communication. Despite the warning to avoid looking in the bag, he soon discovers hidden cash upon his return.

DEA agent Colin Bates and his partner begin investigating drug trafficking networks, unaware of Earl's involvement. Their mission is to dismantle the organized crime, putting Earl's new career at risk.

Through his successful deliveries, Earl earns respect from the Mexican cartel, even impressing Laton, the boss, with his performance as a nonagenarian drug mule. He becomes known as 'El Tata,' a moniker that emphasizes his surprising effectiveness.

At the reopening of the VA, Earl is unexpectedly honored for his contributions, funding Ginny's education and receiving accolades. Although some family members remain distant, this marks a moment of redemption.

While out, Earl inadvertently encounters Agent Bates at a local coffee shop. Despite the risks, he imparts a piece of life advice to Bates, cautioning him against making the same mistakes he has.

Earl receives an invitation to a lavish party in Mexico, celebrating his status in the cartel. However, the gathering takes a dark turn when violence erupts, highlighting the deadly stakes in the drug trade.

As Earl’s family dynamics shift, Mary is brought home for hospice care, prompting Earl to reflect on his life choices. He continues with the cartel's deliveries as he grapples with his family's struggles.

Earl vanishes off the radar, leaving both DEA and cartel members in disarray. This disappearance adds to the tension as his actions have complex repercussions.

Iris begins to reconcile with Earl as he stays by Mary’s side until her passing. After attending her funeral, he is invited to Thanksgiving, hinting at a possible mending of familial ties.

Eventually, Bates locates Earl and arrests him, marking a turning point in Earl's story. In court, Earl takes control of his narrative, pleading guilty while receiving emotional farewells from his family.

The film concludes with Earl finding solace in nurturing daylilies within the prison garden, symbolizing resilience and a connection to his past. This act represents his enduring spirit amidst struggles.