Set in the tumultuous late 1960s, the story follows Buddy, a young boy from a working-class family, as he navigates life amidst the escalating conflict in Northern Ireland. The film opens with a sequence highlighting the bustling, vibrant community in which Buddy lives, characterized by its close-knit neighbors and familiar routines. However, this peaceful life is soon disrupted by the outbreak of sectarian violence. Streets once filled with lively chatter become battlegrounds, and barricades are erected, fundamentally changing the landscape of Buddy's childhood. Through his wide-eyed perspective, we witness his confusion and resilience as his world becomes overshadowed by growing tensions between Catholics and Protestants. This volatile environment forces Buddy’s parents to consider difficult choices for their family's safety and future.

As Buddy tries to maintain innocence and joy amid the chaos, his adventures echo childhood simplicity intertwined with new awareness. He finds solace in his loving family, particularly in his paternal grandparents, who provide wisdom and support amidst the strife. The movie delves into family dynamics, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the struggle between staying or leaving one's home to seek safety. As his parents grapple with hard decisions, Buddy’s experiences unfold against a backdrop of cultural upheaval. The crackling radio broadcasts of distant issues mix with the vivid, immediate neighborhood turmoil, marking a poignant juxtaposition of private battles and public strife, capturing the essence of growing up in a world on the edge.