The movie tells the story of two financial analysts, Emily (Phoebe Dynevor) and Luke (Alden Ehrenreich) who work at a hedge fund. They are secretly engaged because it is against company policy to be together. But, they both agree to let their relationship out in the open when Luke is promoted because he will have more leeway to flout company rules.
Trouble starts when Emily gets promoted instead and Luke starts to work for her. He claims to be happy for her but cannot seem to wrap his head around why she was chosen. Consequently, he starts to buy into the narrative that she slept with their boss Campbell (Eddie Marsan)
The movie explores the workings of a heterosexual relationship and the emotions involved when the power balance is tipped in favour of the “weaker” sex. The movie becomes more agonizing as the strain in their relationship grows. Luke slowly withdraws and strives to make it on his own while undercutting her within the company, verbally abusing her and making her question her position within the company. In a bid to fit in, she starts hanging out more with the boys, including visiting the strip club and changing her appearance to look less like “a doll” and more confident/assertive.
On the night of their engagement party, it had been days since they had seen each other and unbeknownst to others, is now their “farewell” party. A big argument ensues and ends with Luke physically abusing her to satisfy his broken ego.
The movie ends with Luke on his knees begging for forgiveness but it leaves you hollow and pondering on the significance it has in modern-day relationships and our perception of gender roles in everyday life.
