In a quiet suburb of Pittsburgh, Greg Gaines, an introverted and somewhat awkward teenager, has spent his life dodging social labels and trying to blend in at school. His only refuge is his best friend, Earl, with whom he shares a unique passion: creating parodic short films of classic movies. Greg's life takes an unexpected turn when his mother forces him to forge a friendship with Rachel, a classmate who has just been diagnosed with leukemia.
At first, Greg sees it as torture, but as the days go by, he realizes that Rachel is not just another "sick girl"; she is smart, funny, and has a perspective on life that impacts him deeply. Through endearing moments and more heart-wrenching experiences, Greg confronts his own fears about connection and loss while trying to navigate the complexities of friendship and love amid such a raw situation.
With Earl's help, Greg decides to make a unique film for Rachel, a tribute to their friendship. Along the way, they learn lessons about life, death, and the importance of seizing every moment. This journey will not only change Greg and Rachel but will also transform his view of his own place in the world. It is a poignant yet humorous tale about growing up and learning to face life's toughest realities.