In a remote desert town of Perfection, Nevada, handymen Valentine "Val" McKee and Earl Bassett dream of leaving their dull lives for the perceived glamour of Bixby, the nearest city. However, their departure is repeatedly delayed by a series of odd occurrences, including finding seismologist Rhonda LeBeck monitoring unusual underground activity. The trio soon stumbles upon the corpse of a resident perched high on an electrical tower, appearing to have died of dehydration despite being within sight of his home.

The townspeople’s confusion turns to horror as they are attacked by strange subterranean creatures, which the group name "Graboids." These monstrous beings are gigantic, worm-like predators that hunt by sensing vibrations above ground. With no way to call for help and completely cut off from the outside world, Val, Earl, Rhonda, and the remaining residents must rally together if they are to survive. As they're forced to outwit the relentless creatures, the inhabitants of Perfection must adapt to their new reality, utilizing their environment and limited resources in a desperate attempt to outlast their unseen enemy.