World's Best

As Prem Patel, a 12-year-old math prodigy (Prem Patel), navigates the complexities of adolescence with his widowed mother Priya, he finds solace in the pursuit of mathematical excellence. His academic prowess allows him to tackle high school-level coursework with ease, and he sets his sights on becoming the best. After taking an entrance exam, Ms. Sage presents the class with a thought-provoking assignment: to use mathematics to define who they are. Prem turns to Priya for insight into his late father Suresh's personality, and she regales him with the story of how they first met at an underground rap club. The memory sparks a sense of nostalgia in Prem, and he becomes enamored with his father's old belongings.

As he delves deeper into Suresh's world, Prem is suddenly visited by a manifestation of his father, who appears to help him uncover his own identity. This epiphany sets Prem on a path of self-discovery, as he begins to imagine himself as a rapper like his father and embracing the hip-hop lifestyle.

Prem's best friend Jerome joins forces with school bullies Brooklyn and Sharn for a talent competition, while Prem decides to participate under the pseudonym "World's Best Emcee". He draws inspiration from his father's old rhymes book, but when Brooklyn and Sharn put him on the spot, he becomes flustered. However, he is rescued by older students Mercedes and Gabe, who bond with him over their shared love of hip-hop and mathematics.

Throughout this journey, Prem receives words of wisdom and guidance from Suresh, who appears to him in vivid, imaginary hip-hop musical moments. As the competition heats up, Prem finds himself torn between his passion for math and his newfound appreciation for music.

Meanwhile, Brooklyn and Sharn orchestrate a plan to steal Prem's father's book, which they coerce Jerome into disposing of in the trash. However, Claire, a fellow math whiz, intervenes and saves the book from destruction. Prem initially dismisses her assistance, but Priya is called by Mr. Oh, who reveals the truth about Prem's activities. While she scolds him for becoming too fixated on his father, she ultimately acknowledges that he is following in Suresh's footsteps.

Prem becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth about his father's past and decides to accompany Mercedes and Gabe to the Leopard Lounge, where Suresh and Priya first met. However, this revelation shatters Prem's illusions, as he learns that Suresh never performed at an open mic night despite his aspirations. This devastating news sparks a confrontation with Brooklyn, which ultimately results in Prem breaking his arm in a fit of rage.

As the stakes are set, Priya makes a firm decree: no trip to the competition for Prem, only focused attention on his mathlympics preparations. But Prem seizes the moment, boldly calling out her reluctance as a lingering hold on memories of his late father, Suresh. In a surprising turn, Prem takes a chance and attends the competition, where he tenderly apologizes to Claire, now an ally in his quest for academic excellence. Meanwhile, Jerome's expulsion from his dance troupe serves as a humbling reminder of the consequences that come with complacency.

In this crucible of self-discovery, Prem finds common ground with Jerome, and together they forge a path toward mutual understanding. Back at home, Priya stumbles upon Suresh's journal, her eyes drinking in the poignant words he penned about her - a poignant reminder of their love story. As the dust settles, Prem re-dedicates himself to his studies, joining forces with Claire, Mercedes, and Gabe to form a formidable mathlympics team.

Under the watchful eye of none other than Doug E. Fresh, the event unfolds with precision and harmony, the trio securing a respectable third-place finish - a remarkable turnaround from their last-year's dismal performance. With his competitive spirit satiated, Prem takes to the streets, where he becomes an impromptu participant in a group rap session, his joy infectious.

As the music fades, Priya's gaze falls upon Suresh's ethereal presence, and together they silently acknowledge Prem's unwavering commitment to pursuing his passions - a testament to the enduring power of love, hope, and perseverance.