A daredevil stuntman pushes himself to the brink of destruction in search of his late father’s legacy to become the world’s greatest showman, only to discover that his quest is just within arm's reach.

SYNOPSIS:

Virus Macnamara grew up on a small farm as an only child, raised by a dreamer father and a burdened mother. His father, a tinkerer obsessed with crafting the next big invention, became Virus’s mentor and inspiration. With a knack for offering wisdom, his father’s words, “Always aim for the stars because you just might reach ’em,” struck a chord in the young boy’s heart. Virus’s determination to achieve greatness was born in that moment, fueling his rise to becoming the world’s most famous daredevil stuntman.

While his relationship with his father was filled with admiration, his bond with his mother, Klara, was strained. She toiled to keep the farm running by day but drowned her pain in alcohol by night. Unbeknownst to Virus, Klara bore the weight of a secret—a twin sister who died at birth due to an underdeveloped heart. This unspoken grief created a gulf between mother and son that would haunt their relationship. When Virus meets Sherry during his trip to a circus, his life dramatically turns. She becomes his biggest motivator, encouraging him along his journey to success.

Virus’s priorities change dramatically upon discovering that Klara is hospitalised due to alcohol poisoning and finds himself at Klara’s bedside, grappling with guilt, anger, and lingering childhood trauma. Klara expresses regret for her past actions, while Virus acknowledges his own failings, paving the way for reconciliation.

Parallel to his personal struggles, Virus's professional life intensifies as he prepares for the high-stakes stunt, "The Dam Jump." With the career-defining event on the horizon, Virus must navigate the pressure and risks involved.

Sherry grows increasingly concerned as Virus immerses himself in the stunt preparations, using it as an escape from his personal struggles. In a pivotal moment, she confronts him, questioning his need to risk everything for fleeting fame. Virus reveals that his stunts give him a sense of control, something which he rarely feels in his chaotic life.

In a dramatic twist, Virus decides not to perform the stunt. Instead, he chooses to prioritise his relationships, especially with his mother and Sherry. The audience, expecting a death-defying leap, witnesses a different kind of bravery—one rooted in vulnerability and the courage to let go of destructive ambition.

The film ends on a reflective note, showing Virus reconnecting with his mother, addressing long-held wounds, and embracing a life of purpose and balance with Sherry by his side. His journey becomes a testament to the idea that true greatness lies not in how far you can push yourself but in how deeply you can connect with those who matter most.

Screenplay in development

VIRUS