The Cat and the Moon 2019

As Nick’s mother embarks on her rehabilitation journey, he finds himself relocated to the bustling streets of New York City, taking up residence with Cal, an old friend of his father’s. The city’s vibrant energy pulses through him as he navigates the commuter chaos to school, a daily ritual that spurs deep reflection and self-exploration. One pivotal morning, consumed by desolation, Nick contemplates a drastic escape from life; yet, a sudden surge of fear propels him back to safety just in time.

Arriving at school, Nick crosses paths with Eliza, whose mysterious aura piques his interest. The next day finds him in the restroom, seeking solace in substance use; instead, he meets Seamus and Russell, two intriguing individuals who take him under their wing. Their friendship solidifies with an invitation to a party, where Nick reconnects with Skylar and rekindles his bond with Eliza.

As the night unfolds, Nick finds comfort in deep conversations and shared childhood memories with Eliza, their connection deepening through a mutual love for music. Meanwhile, Seamus retreats to the rooftop for a secret rendezvous with an unknown admirer. The following day, Russell alludes to infidelity during a stop at a fast-food joint, warning Nick not to disclose this secret to Eliza.

A fateful Friday night arrives when Russell acquires illicit substances from a street vendor, recklessly using a racial slur that incites fury, leading the vendor to brandish a weapon before leaving. Under the influence, Nick and his friends fall prey to the intoxication of Russell’s ill-gotten gains.

The next day, Nick stumbles upon Seamus engaging in a betrayal of his own, this time in the restroom with an unsuspecting partner. A drunken Lola takes Nick to a bedroom for a romantic encounter but is soon interrupted by a rowdy group of teenagers, who mock and provoke Nick.

As the evening progresses, Nick’s friends help Lola home while Eliza shares an intimate moment with him. Cal informs Nick that his mother is making strides in her rehabilitation, emphasizing the necessity for Nick to stay in New York. The weight of this news becomes profound for Nick as he witnesses Seamus reconnecting with Eliza on a bus, triggering yet another failed attempt at ending his own pain.

In the wake of this emotional upheaval, Nick confides in Cal about his inner turmoil, only to face Russell’s wrath later that day through a physical altercation. In a quest for healing, Eliza reaches out to Nick, but their brief reconciliation ends in separation. The farewell party unfolds as a bittersweet moment of closure for Nick and Seamus, exchanging gifts, including a book filled with French slang. As Nick bids farewell to the city he has grown to love, he casts one final nostalgic glance at Eliza, whose mysterious presence continues to haunt him.