On a cold December evening in 1999 on Staten Island, Todd maneuvers his small bus through the snowy streets, embodying a life that is precariously balanced between duty and longing. As a reserve police officer with dreams of entering the police academy, he also carries the burden of family obligations—his mother, Elaine, dedicates herself to their two disabled children, DeeDee and Willy, who are employed at a local box factory but recently lost their jobs due to their troublesome antics.

The night takes an unexpected twist when Todd meets Jessie, a newcomer searching for work in town. Concurrently, Kent, a war veteran haunted by his experiences in Iraq, is teetering on the brink of relapse. Todd steps in, attempting to thwart Kent’s ill-fated plan to make a reckless purchase, thus saving him from a broader crisis.

As events unfold, Elaine is called to the hospital regarding Kent’s emergency, blissfully unaware that Todd has unknowingly worsened the situation by supplying him with drugs. The repercussions of this misjudgment come to light during Kent’s funeral, where Elaine is left feeling desolate and diminished, missing the dignity of a proper military tribute.

Seeking guidance, Todd turns to his father, Ed, who is burdened by guilt from his own Vietnam War experiences. As Todd uncovers the weight of Ed’s past, he urges him to confront the grim realities surrounding Kent, yet Ed stubbornly refuses to admit any fault in the matter.

Amid the brewing tensions, Elaine takes Willy to Jessie’s place of work, inviting the whole family to an attempt at festive celebration. However, any sense of holiday cheer quickly fades as DeeDee and Willy’s mischievous behavior threatens to derail the joyous occasion. Through the chaos, Todd finds himself inexplicably drawn to Jessie and her little daughter, igniting a flicker of hope amidst the prevailing darkness.

As Christmas approaches, the family comes together for a holiday meal, yet the joyous spirit is overshadowed by conflict and turmoil fueled by DeeDee and Willy’s uproarious antics. Ultimately, a touching moment at the dance—where DeeDee revels in a dance with Willy—serves as the catalyst to reunite the family, reminding them of the importance of love and connection, even in their most difficult times.