After moving to the picturesque town of Cradle Bay following his brother's tragic death, high school student Steve Clark quickly notices something unsettling about the local clique known as the "Blue Ribbons." Despite their perfect grades and polished behavior, they seem unnervingly robotic. Steve befriends Gavin, an outspoken rebel who insists the Blue Ribbons are part of a sinister brainwashing program designed to create obedient teenagers. Skeptical at first, Steve becomes increasingly convinced as he witnesses more strange occurrences and disturbing changes in his fellow students.

As Steve digs deeper with the help of his new friends, including Rachel, a tough and intuitive girl who shares his suspicions, they uncover a dark conspiracy tied to the school's psychologist, Dr. Caldicott. The group races against time to reveal the truth, but the powerful forces behind the Blue Ribbons will stop at nothing to keep their secrets hidden. Steve realizes he must face these threats head-on if he hopes to save not only himself but also his friends and possibly the entire town.