The Sweet East

High school student Lillian embarks on her class trip to Washington, D.C., filled with excitement and anticipation. The trip promises to be an educational experience that will broaden her horizons and introduce her to new ideas.

During their time in the city, a horrific incident occurs when an armed assailant attacks a local restaurant. He mistakenly believes it to be involved in a secret pedophilia ring, leading to chaos and panic within the community.

In the aftermath of the attack, Lillian meets Caleb, an anarchist activist drawn to protests and social dissent. He invites her into a realm she never anticipated, exposing her to radical ideas and a different way of viewing society.

Lillian encounters Lawrence, a university professor with ties to far-right ideologies. Despite red flags raised by his questionable beliefs, she ends up staying with him while inadvertently witnessing a suspicious transaction involving a duffel bag.

As media coverage intensifies about the restaurant attack, Lillian's friends fear for her safety, falsely believing she has been kidnapped. The atmosphere of panic surrounds her as a police manhunt is initiated.

Lawrence invites Lillian on a trip to New York City, which spirals her into a whirlwind of unpredictable events. Their time in Manhattan is a mix of curiosity and tension as Lillian progressively pushes boundaries.

While staying at a hotel in Manhattan, Lillian takes a bold step to explore the contents of the duffel bag she witnessed Lawrence with. To her shock, she discovers a large sum of cash, transforming her sense of control in this tumultuous journey.

Empowered by her discovery, Lillian decides to seize the opportunity and disappears from Lawrence's life. This marks a pivotal moment in her quest for independence as she strategically takes charge of her situation.

Lillian's life takes another turn when she encounters filmmakers Molly and Matthew. Their interest in her unique story leads to an invitation for her to star in their upcoming film, giving Lillian a taste of fame.

During the film shoot, Lillian develops a close bond with her co-star Ian. Their on-screen chemistry quickly transitions into a captivating romance that draws media attention and captures the essence of youthful love.

Tragedy strikes when a figure linked to the duffel bag transaction intrudes on the film set. This results in chaos and violence, culminating in the tragic death of Ian, which leaves Lillian reeling and desperate for safety.

In the midst of chaos, Lillian finds aid from Mo, a resourceful crew member. He takes her to a hidden barn belonging to his brother Ahmad, which serves as a sanctuary for an isolated Islamic community, providing her with temporary safety.

While the barn offers a sense of refuge, Lillian remains on edge, fearing the possibility of being discovered by her pursuers. The tension hangs heavy as she grapples with her trauma and ongoing threats to her safety.

Lillian learns through the news that the skinheads responsible for her trauma have been captured by police. Although this brings a glimmer of relief, her own desire for freedom remains unfulfilled as she concocts an escape plan.

After collapsing from exhaustion while attempting to flee, Lillian awakens in a monastery. A kind priest informs her that she has been rescued from hypothermia, and the authorities are aware of her situation, marking the end of her harrowing journey.

Upon returning home, Lillian is confronted by the reality of her classmates' lives, which have been altered by the tragic news of a terrorist attack. Despite the chaos around her, she finds a moment of solitude to reflect on her personal resilience.

As Lillian steps outside her house for the first time since returning, she does so with a small smile. Looking directly into the camera, she embodies a new perspective on life, demonstrating her growth and newfound strength amid adversity.