White Noise

In 1984, Jack Gladney, a professor specializing in 'Hitler studies', faces difficulties with the German language. To prepare for an upcoming conference speech, he discreetly enrolls in basic language lessons, showcasing his dedication to his work despite his challenges.

Jack shares his life with his fourth wife, Babette, and their blended family, which includes his children from previous relationships and Babette's daughter. They strive to create a stable environment for their children amidst the complexities of their combined pasts.

Babette secretly harbors anxiety about their children's future and life after they move out. Meanwhile, Denise, one of their daughters, stumbles upon a stash of a mysterious drug, Dylar, that raises further questions about Babette's state.

Jack begins to experience unsettling dreams about a figure attempting to kill him, reflecting his and Babette's fears about mortality. This leads to deep discussions about death and anxiety, which permeate their daily lives.

A catastrophic train accident occurs, releasing toxic chemicals over their town. Initially dismissive, Jack tries to assure his family of their safety, but panic ensues as the chemical cloud forces a widespread evacuation.

Caught in traffic during the evacuation, Jack's family struggles with low fuel and mounting anxiety. Their attempts to escape the impending danger become increasingly frantic as the situation escalates and gridlock ensues.

In the chaos of the evacuation, Jack inadvertently exposes himself to the toxic cloud while searching for gasoline. This event marks a turning point that casts a long shadow over the family's health and future.

The family finds themselves confined in a summer camp for evacuees. Denise informs Jack about the potential health risks from his exposure, leading to grim realizations about the long-term implications of the incident.

After weeks of displacement, the Gladneys migrate to Iron City and confront an individual who insists on the lack of media coverage regarding their plight. Their return home soon follows, but Jack's fear of death intensifies due to his exposure.

Upon returning home, Jack notices a stark change in Babette, who has become emotionally detached and frail. This shift in her demeanor raises further concerns for Jack, compounding his anxieties.

As Jack tries to understand Babette's precarious health, he learns from Denise about the potential dangers of Dylar. Confronting Babette reveals the drug’s roots in a clandestine clinical trial aimed at alleviating the fear of death.

Fueled by a mix of curiosity and anger, Jack embarks on a quest to confront Mr. Gray, the shadowy figure associated with Babette's drug. Eventually, he uncovers that Mr. Gray represents the tormenting specter that has been haunting his mind.

Jack's confrontation with Mr. Gray culminates in a shocking twist when he shoots him in what appears to be a staged suicide. This encounter spirals out of control, resulting in injuries for both Jack and Babette.

After a series of mind-bending events, Jack and Babette find themselves at a peculiar hospital run by German atheist nuns. This surreal experience brings a new layer of complexity to their lives and their struggle for normalcy.

In a heartwarming conclusion, the Gladneys rediscover a sense of normalcy while shopping at their local A&P supermarket. They experience a moment of joy dancing with other patrons, illustrating that life persists amidst chaos.