Both James and Alyssa are deeply alienated from their families and peers. James believes he's a psychopath, numb to the world around him, while Alyssa grapples with feelings of anger and resentment towards her family life. This shared sense of disconnect fuels their impulsive decision to run away, seeking escape from a world they don't understand and don't feel a part of.

As James and Alyssa journey deeper into the heart of America, they're forced to confront their own identities. James struggles with his self-diagnosed psychopathy, questioning if he's capable of real human connection. Alyssa, on the other hand, tries to break free from the expectations placed on her, craving independence and agency. Their experiences on the road, both harrowing and humorous, become defining moments in their journey of self-discovery.

Despite their differences and emotional baggage, James and Alyssa find an unusual solace in each other's company. Their shared cynicism and disillusionment create a strange bond, allowing them to be vulnerable and honest in a way they never could be with anyone else. This unlikely connection challenges their preconceived notions about themselves and the world, offering a glimmer of hope in their otherwise bleak outlook.