In a small town, a young boy named Gunner Boone is deeply concerned about his mother's deteriorating health. Desperate to find a cure, he becomes captivated by a local legend about a mystical figure known as the Water Man, who is rumored to possess the ability to cheat death. Determined and hopeful, Gunner embarks on a quest to find the Water Man, believing that he can save his mother. He scours local stories, books, and any information he can gather to guide his journey. During his research, he encounters Jo, a rebellious girl with knowledge about the legend and the surrounding forest. The two strike an uneasy partnership based on their shared goal and venture into the foreboding woods.

As their adventure unfolds, Gunner and Jo navigate the dense forest, facing both natural obstacles and imaginary threats that test their resolve and courage. Along the way, they are pursued by Gunner's father, Amos, who frantically searches for them, unaware of Gunner's true motivations. The journey into the forest becomes more treacherous than they imagined, forcing Gunner to confront his fears and grapple with larger questions of life and mortality. The forest hides secrets that challenge his beliefs and bring him closer to understanding the complexities of life, love, and family. As danger mounts and uncertainties loom, what began as a quest for a miracle turns into a profound exploration of the bond between father and son, ultimately leading them down unexpected paths.