Los Angeles 1962, and 52-year-old British college professor George Falconer (Colin Firth) is struggling to find meaning in his life after the death of his long-time partner Jim (Matthew Goode). Through the course of one day, a series of events and encounters cause him to reflect on his past, and consider whether or not he has a future. His lovelorn best friend Charley (Julianne Moore) is devoted to George, but wrestling with her own demons, while one of his students, Kenny (Nicholas Hoult) pursues him, seeing a possible kindred spirit.