Greg is a high school senior who is trying to blend in as anonymously as possible, avoiding deeper relationships as a survival strategy for navigating the social minefield that is teenage life. He even describes his constant companion Earl, with whom he makes short film parodies of classic movies, as more of a 'co-worker' than a best friend. But when Greg's mom insists he spend time with Rachel - a girl in his class who has just been diagnosed with cancer - he slowly discovers how worthwhile the true bonds of friendship can be.