In the 1980s, a filmmaker documents the life of an ordinary teenager. He chooses Rich Longfellow, a quiet boy from Perry, Ohio, to film. Shortly after filming begins, Rich dies in Mozambique. Sixteen years later, his son resumes the project, locating Rich, now 23, in Los Angeles. Rich is pursuing a career as a Shakespearean actor, taking on work in adult films for experience. The son meets Betsy, Rich's practical girlfriend; Lee, the demanding producer; and Carmichael, an artistic director who influences Rich. Conflicts with Betsy and difficulties on set push Rich to a breaking point. When a childhood friend starts a Shakespeare company performing in nursing homes, Rich sees a path forward.