A young boy named Max, feeling misunderstood at home and at school, runs away after an emotional outburst. Dressed in a wolf costume, he sails across a vast ocean and arrives at a mysterious island inhabited by large, fantastical creatures known as the Wild Things. These creatures, initially threatening, quickly warm to Max when he convinces them he is a powerful king capable of bringing peace and happiness to their troubled lives. Max is crowned king, and the Wild Things show him how they live through wild rumpus and chaotic but joyful activities.

However, ruling the Wild Things proves more challenging than Max anticipated. The creatures' complex emotions and relationships mirror the struggles he faces in his real life. As Max's adventures continue, he learns valuable lessons about friendship, leadership, and the importance of understanding and empathy. This journey leads him to reevaluate his actions and feelings towards the people in his world back home. Over time, he comes to realize the weight of responsibility and the importance of the family he left behind.