The Fundamentals of Caring 2016

Ben, a writer grappling with a creative block, finds himself enveloped in a whirlwind of emotional challenges as he attempts to navigate the intricate layers of his troubled life. Recent tragedies, including the heartbreaking loss of his young son and the impending divorce from his estranged wife, leave him feeling adrift and devoid of purpose. Seeking respite, he enrolls in a six-week course aimed at becoming a registered caregiver, which leads him to cross paths with Elsa, a pragmatic bank office manager from England. Elsa hires Ben to care for her 18-year-old son, Trevor, who is battling the challenges of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

As Ben embraces his new role, he forms an unexpected yet profound connection with Trevor, a witty and sexually frustrated teenager. Their relationship deepens as they share personal histories, revealing Trevor’s painful feelings stemming from his father’s abandonment upon his diagnosis at the tender age of three. Meanwhile, Trevor’s fascination with American roadside attractions offers Ben a much-needed avenue for escapism, prompting them to embark on a quest to visit the world’s deepest pit.

Their road trip is a blend of humor and reflection, as both Ben and Trevor tackle their inner demons along the way. The journey becomes even more intricate with the entrance of Dot, a young hitchhiker filled with her own secrets and struggles. As they meet a colorful array of characters, including the intriguing Peaches, who is on a journey to restart her life in Denver, the group finds themselves enveloped in an unforeseen web of connections and insights.

From the dazzling streets of Salt Lake City to the rustic roads of the American heartland, their adventure leads them to confront Trevor’s absentee father, a man shrouded in apathy. This confrontation triggers an array of events that compel Ben to reassess his priorities, ultimately finding renewed meaning in his life. As their expedition reaches its conclusion, it becomes evident that this road trip has transcended mere travel; it embodies a profound journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

However, just as Ben’s reality shifts drastically due to a frantic phone call from Dot, he is engulfed by a sense of dread regarding Trevor’s safety. His worst fears momentarily come to fruition when he encounters a new crisis: Peaches, whose eyes shine with hope, is about to give birth. Initially hesitant, Ben’s instincts take over as he aids Peaches in delivering her newborn son, momentarily overshadowing his own grief from his child’s past tragedy—an accident caused by his own oversight while unloading groceries.

With Peaches and her newborn en route to the hospital, Ben turns his focus back to Dot, who has reconciled with her father and is headed to Denver. A touching farewell unfolds between Dot and Trevor, who promise to keep in touch. Meanwhile, ever the supportive friend, Ben helps Trevor achieve a long-held wish—to urinate standing over the edge of the pit, armed with a makeshift spinal board.

As the dust settles from this unpredictable episode, Ben returns home to finalize his divorce, closing the door on one chapter of his life. Inspired by the resilient spirit of Trevor—a bond that remains strong—Ben begins to craft his next literary masterpiece, celebrating the profound connection of friendship that has shaped his journey.