The Bubble 2007

As the COVID-19 pandemic wreaks havoc around the world, the entertainment industry finds itself in a paradoxical situation where the demand for escapism surges. Amidst this chaos, one bold studio pushes forward with the sixth chapter of the “Cliff Beasts” franchise, intricately maneuvering through strict safety protocols to ensure the production goes off without a hitch.

Behind the scenes, the executive producer Gavin, portrayed by Yousef ‘Joe’ Sweid, and his diligent assistant Pippa, played by Daniela Virtzer, are tasked with setting the correct atmosphere for their ambitious undertaking. They are joined by newcomers Gunther (Harry Trevaldwyn) and Bola (Samson Kayo), who collaborate with Gavin and Pippa to tackle the various difficulties that arise while bringing this colossal project to fruition.

The production is further complicated by the return of fan-favorite Carol Cobb, brought to life by Ohad Knoller, who returns after her lengthy absence from the series. Her re-entry stirs a pot of mixed feelings among the cast, still grappling with the remnants of her previous exit. The palpable tension escalates as Carol meets with her agent Marti (Rob Delaney) to prepare for the heightened scrutiny that awaits her in the spotlight once again.

As filming kicks off, Carol finds herself confined to a hotel in London, where she spends her time indulging in junk food and binge-watching old films. With her quarantine finally over, she heads to a glitzy party, reuniting with both friends and adversaries. Castmate Howie Frangopolous (Guz Khan) greets her with open arms, even extending goodwill towards Gunther. Meanwhile, series stalwart Lauren Van Chance (Leslie Mann) struggles with her emotions regarding Carol’s comeback, but in time, the two manage to reconcile.

The cast is further thrown into disarray with the presence of Dieter Bravo (Pedro Pascal), a seasoned actor entangled in personal issues stemming from his addiction to sex and drugs, who attempts to win over hotel staff member Anika (Maria Bakalova). To attract a younger audience, the studio also introduces social media influencer Krystal Kris (Iris Apatow). Production assistant Carla (Galen Hopper) sees an opportunity to ally with Krystal, while Sean Knox (Keegan Michael-Key), a regular on the series, views her as a rival.

At the creative helm of this ambitious endeavor is indie director Darren Eigan (Fred Armisen), who is under immense pressure from studio head Paula (Kate McKinnon) to craft a film that satisfies all involved parties. As cameras roll and drama unfolds, it becomes evident that the journey ahead is riddled with surprises, intricate relationships, and a web of hidden intentions.

As the production progresses, tensions flare when Krystal leads an unplanned TikTok dance party that unites the crew, including hotel staff. Amid the festivities, cast member Dustin voices his concerns about the script to Darren, emphasizing the critical need for refinement.

However, celebrations are abruptly halted when Gavin announces a positive COVID case in the crew, mandating a return to quarantine. The unexpected pause sends shockwaves through the cast, triggering a psychological unraveling for some as they confine themselves to their hotel rooms.

In this uncertain and isolating atmosphere, unexpected bonds form. Krystal and Carla discover a genuine friendship, while Lauren and Dustin’s chemistry ignites, growing stronger when the cameras are off. Meanwhile, Carol becomes increasingly drawn to Zaki (Raphael Acloque), an athlete in the cast, despite her efforts to stay loyal to Josh.

As frustrations boil over, Howie walks off set, sparking outrage among his peers. His departure is documented, leading to a heartbreaking narrative twist that sees his character axed from the film.

Two months into the shoot, cast members are fitted with movement trackers for monitoring. After a filming session, Carol receives gut-wrenching news: Josh has begun dating a waitress, who will care for their children. Stricken with grief, she finds solace in Zaki’s company.

Dieter’s grasp on reality begins to slip as he plunges into an acid-fueled escapade, leading to a surreal encounter with the AI-powered Kate (Daisy Ridley) from his workout equipment. Meanwhile, Carol’s health worsens. Although Gavin reports the cast has tested negative for COVID, others have fallen ill with the flu.

Production carries on marked by tense moments, including a chaotic scene where Lauren’s character suffers from a dizzy spell and vomits, alongside Carol and Dustin. The whirlwind of emotions leads Gavin to confront Paula about their alarming delay.

As underlying tensions escalate, Carol attempts to unite the cast to abandon the film due to the adverse circumstances. Yet, her efforts largely fall on deaf ears, leading higher-ups to reduce her role. Resultingly, a pivotal scene featuring a baby dinosaur is commandeered by Krystal, who poorly reinterprets it with an ill-placed TikTok dance. Furthermore, Carol’s moment of urgency is painfully overshadowed by her disastrous shaming incident with a prehistoric creature.

Compounding matters, personal conflicts between Lauren and Dustin explode when arguments over their adopted son reach a boiling point—culminating in Lauren setting Dustin’s laptop aflame. In a frenzied escape from the hotel, Lauren crosses paths with Gavin’s heavily armed security team, remaining unaware they’re misinterpreting her behavior as that of a deranged fan. Chaos ensues as a guard’s misfire results in Lauren sustaining grave injuries. As attempts to downplay the tumultuous episode spiral, Gavin confers with Paula and Tom (John Lithgow) on salvaging the production.

As morale continues to diminish, Carol grapples with her eroding role. Sean’s injury during a poorly executed stunt captures attention while Lauren is replaced by a body double, masked with CGI. In a desperate move to uplift spirits, Paula enlists musician Beck to create a soundtrack for the film. This leads to a surprise announcement that “Cliff Beasts 7” has been greenlit, pushing Carol to her limits, ultimately refusing to continue under these terms.

Finding herself at a crossroads, Carol seeks Krystal’s collaboration for a viral video to spotlight the dire filming conditions, but Carla persuades Krystal to abandon the idea, fearing it will frame them as entitled individuals. Shortly after, however, a scandalous video of Krystal partying amid COVID surfaces, resulting in a massive drop in her follower count.

As camaraderie reaches its peak, blurred lines between reality and fiction begin to unfurl. Gunther unexpectedly channels Benedict Cumberbatch, prompting a new viral sensation on Krystal’s channel. Yet, Dieter’s escalating antics lead to a terrifying overdose until Anika revives him with a timely adrenaline shot.

This pivotal moment galvanizes Carol, compelling her to inspire unity amongst the cast for their escape from the beleaguered set. With renewed zeal, cast members forge paths toward freedom, with Carol pursued by James McAvoy, while Sean clashes with security. Krystal’s trust in Carla wanes as the realization sets in that her friend was a plant for ensuring the film’s completion.

As they chart their escape routes, Dieter and Dustin join forces. Yet, Darren’s attempts to quell their plans devolve into a comical tussle. Ultimately, they find sanctuary aboard Anika’s helicopter, leaving Gavin and Darren to ponder the broader repercussions of their actions on their careers.

Fast-forward to the premiere of “Beasts of the Bubble,” a documentary recounting the film’s tumultuous journey. Lauren strides in, having undergone a remarkable transformation with a cutting-edge robotic hand, while Dieter finds love with Anika and cultivates a unique relationship with Kate, the AI from his workouts, solidifying his unconventional partnership.