Nomadland 2020

In 2011, shortly after losing her job at the US Gypsum plant in Empire, Nevada, Fern finds herself at a crossroads. Having worked there for many years alongside her late husband, she makes the brave decision to sell most of her possessions and acquire a van, choosing to embark on a journey across the country in search of work. During the winter, she secures a seasonal position at an Amazon fulfillment center.

An invitation from her friend and co-worker Linda leads Fern to a desert gathering in Arizona organized by Bob Wells, aimed at creating a community and support system for fellow nomads. Initially hesitant, Fern ultimately decides to attend the gathering when her circumstances worsen and job opportunities dwindle. Here, she encounters other nomads and acquires essential skills for surviving the road, fostering a new sense of belonging.

Soon after, when Fern’s van suffers a flat tire, she seeks assistance from a nearby nomad, Swankie, who scolds her for her lack of preparedness. Despite their rocky start, Fern and Swankie form a strong friendship as Swankie shares her story, revealing her cancer diagnosis and her desire to make meaningful memories while traveling instead of succumbing to illness in a hospital. Their paths eventually diverge, leaving Fern with valuable lessons.

As time goes on, Fern secures a job as a camp host at an RV park, where she reconnects with David, a fellow nomad she had danced with during the desert gathering. When David falls ill, she steps up, accompanying him to the hospital for urgent surgery and later working alongside him at a local restaurant. During a visit from David’s adult son, Fern learns about his grandchild’s impending arrival. Though David considers returning home, he invites Fern, who declines, choosing to respect his needs.

After taking a job in beet harvesting, bad luck strikes as Fern’s van breaks down and she is unable to finance the repairs. She turns to her sister for help, but their conversation reveals lingering tensions and unresolved issues from their past. Despite receiving the aid, Fern feels a sense of alienation due to her absence from their lives. Wanting to reconnect, she visits David and his family, only to discover that he plans to stay with them long-term. Though offered a permanent room, Fern ultimately decides to leave.

Returning to her seasonal role at Amazon, Fern revisits the Arizona commune, where she learns of Swankie’s passing. Moved, she and the other nomads honor her life and share memories. Fern candidly speaks with Bob about her late husband, allowing him to express his own grief over the loss of his son. Their conversation emphasizes the bond of the nomadic community, where farewells are never truly final as they all promise to meet again down the road.

Eventually, Fern makes her way back to the now-abandoned town of Empire, visiting the factory and the home she once shared with her husband, providing a poignant moment of reflection before she sets off on her next adventure.