In a dystopian future, Earth has become a place ravaged by poverty and pollution, where humans live in deplorable conditions. In contrast, the wealthy have left behind the misery and built a luxury space station called Elysium, where they enjoy a life of luxury and access to advanced technology, such as sophisticated medical treatments that can cure any disease.
Max DeCosta, a former convict trying to do the right thing, works in a factory in the remnants of Los Angeles. His life takes an unexpected turn when he suffers a workplace accident that leaves him with little hope of survival. Desperate to reach Elysium and obtain the treatment he needs, Max joins a group of rebels and plans a risky journey to space. But to achieve this, he will need the support of a hacker and must face Elysium's powerful head of security, Jessica Delacorte, who is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain order in her privileged world.
As Max delves into this class conflict, he becomes a symbol of resistance, fighting not only for his life but for the justice and equality that the inhabitants of Earth deserve. The story evolves into an intense futuristic action narrative that questions the morality of a system that separates the poor from the rich, while Max faces challenges that could change the fate of both worlds.