September 1998. The millennium approaches. As they prepare for Y2K, two teenagers set out to find the legendary Mojave Payphone led by their mentor - the unhinged conspiracy theorist Captain Zeno. When they reach their quarry, however, things take a turn.

Growing up in post-World War II era Arizona, young Sammy Fabelman aspires to become a filmmaker as he reaches adolescence, but soon discovers a shattering family secret and explores how the power of films can help him see the truth.

Richard's existential angst develops into a mania of self-mutilation.