What Is Year One About?
The premise of Year One in 299 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In a world where myth and daily life collide, a modest tribe clings to the rhythms of a rugged, pre‑civilized landscape. The ancient hills echo with stories that have been whispered for generations, and the very air seems charged with the promise of something larger than the simple tasks of hunting and gathering. Yet beneath the reverent tones of legend, a breezy, irreverent humor pulses through every sunrise, setting the stage for a tale that gleefully tiptoes between reverence and ridicule.
At the heart of the story are two mismatched companions thrust together by circumstance. Zed, a quick‑witted wanderer with a habit of testing the limits of tradition, finds his curiosity leading him astray, while Oh, a gentle and cautious soul, follows more out of loyalty than conviction. Their personalities clash as often as they complement one another, creating a dynamic that feels both tender and uproarious. When the tribe’s strict customs finally cast them out, the duo is left to navigate a world that suddenly feels both vast and absurdly intimate.
Their exile becomes a rollicking odyssey across the biblical tapestry, where they brush shoulders with figures whose names have endured through the ages. Each encounter is filtered through their bewildered eyes, turning sacred moments into comic misunderstandings and cultural faux pas. The journey layers slapstick moments atop moments of awe, reminding viewers that even the most iconic stories can be seen from a delightfully skewed perspective.
All roads eventually lead them to the infamous city of Sodom, a place reputed for its decadence and moral chaos. Here, the pair’s out‑of‑place charm amplifies the city’s own extravagance, turning everyday encounters into scenes of delightful disarray. The promise of further misadventure hangs in the air, hinting that whatever lies ahead will test their friendship while keeping the laughter rolling.
What Happens in Year One?
The complete story of Year One, from the first scene to the last, in 519 words (about 2 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 2 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Zed, played by Jack Black, resides in a primitive village, sharing his life with Marlack, the village’s top hunter, and a girl named Maaya, who unfortunately has her heart set on Marlack. Meanwhile, Oh, portrayed by Michael Cera, is a timid gatherer who has feelings for Eema, another gatherer who, like Maaya, is attracted to the strong hunters. Frustrated by the lack of respect from his fellow villagers, Zed succumbs to temptation and bites from the fruit of a forbidden tree, which leads to his banishment. He is soon joined by Oh, who also finds himself outcast.
As the duo wanders, they stumble upon the infamous characters Cain and Abel on a fateful day when a severe conflict leads Cain to slay Abel. Cain’s sister, Lileth, a strong-willed woman, has little interest in Zed, despite her father’s blessing. Cain’s other sibling, Seth, is revealed to be gay, adding an unexpected twist to their complicated family dynamics.
After Cain’s heinous act is uncovered by their father, he escapes with Zed and Oh to a coastal town. There, they witness their tribe enslaved and attempt to buy back Maaya and Eema but are betrayed by Cain, who sells them into slavery instead. Just as they’re being transported for auction, chaos erupts when soldiers from Sodom attack the caravan, allowing Zed and Oh to flee into the desert.
In a serendipitous encounter, the duo meets Abraham, who is preparing to sacrifice his son Isaac. Abraham warns them about the sinful city of Sodom, predicting its divine destruction. He attempts to circumcise them, leading to a hurried escape to Sodom, where they are captured and face a terrifying fate at the hands of the guards. In a twist of fate, Cain resurfaces, now disguised as a guard, rescuing them and incorporating them into the Sodom army.
Zed quickly becomes enamored with Princess Inanna, and she reciprocates his interest. The high priest, in a bizarre ritual, sacrifices a virgin to invoke rain, cementing the city’s descent into depravity. Inanna takes a liking to Zed, believing him destined for greatness. However, she also leads him into the forbidden Holy of Holies, where the high priest discovers them—and Oh is hiding, setting off a chain of dire events.
Facing trial by a corrupt King and Priest, Zed makes a bold statement about being chosen by the gods, leading to an infamous sentence of starvation or exhaustion for him and Oh. The King decides to sacrifice Maaya, Eema, and even Inanna—whom he disdains—for their insolence. Provoked by the impending sacrifice, Zed rises up against their captors. The spectators interpret this as a sign of rebellion from a prophesied savior, joining him in his fight.
In the chaos, Zed defeats the King and the high priest, freeing Maaya in the process. Oh experiences a life-changing moment with Eema, ensuring her status no longer fits the criteria for sacrifice. With Inanna ascending the throne as queen, Oh and Eema make their way back to their village, while Zed and Maaya embark on a new journey to Egypt, marking the beginning of a new adventure filled with hope and resilience.
Year One Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Zed's Life in the Village” to “A New Beginning”. 11 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Zed's Life in the Village
Zed lives in a primitive village, coexisting with Marlack, the village's top hunter, who captures the affections of Maaya. Zed feels sidelined and overlooked, especially in matters of love, which sets the stage for his impulsive actions.
Where:Primitive Village
- 2
Forbidden Fruit
Frustrated by his lack of respect among his peers, Zed succumbs to temptation and bites the fruit from a forbidden tree. This act leads to his banishment from the village, setting him on a path of unexpected adventures.
- 3
Oh Joins Zed
After Zed's banishment, Oh, another outcast who secretly loves Eema, also leaves the village. Together, they form a bond in their shared status as societal rejects, determined to find their place in the world.
- 4
Encounter with Cain and Abel
Wandering the wilderness, Zed and Oh stumble upon the story of Cain and Abel. A fateful conflict unfolds as Cain kills Abel, exposing the deep-seated family dynamics and introducing Zed and Oh to important characters in their journey.
- 5
Escape to the Coastal Town
After Cain's violent act is discovered, he escapes with Zed and Oh to a nearby coastal town. They quickly find themselves entangled in a desperate situation as they try to rescue Maaya and Eema, only to be betrayed by Cain.
Where:Coastal Town
- 6
Betrayal and Slavery
Instead of rescuing the girls, Cain sells Zed and Oh into slavery. This betrayal leads to their dire fate as they are transported for auction, highlighting the treachery within their new acquaintance.
- 7
Chaos Erupts
Just as Zed and Oh are bound for auction, chaos unfolds when soldiers from Sodom attack the caravan. This unexpected turn of events allows Zed and Oh to escape into the desert, gaining a temporary reprieve.
Where:Desert
- 8
Meeting Abraham
In the desert, Zed and Oh encounter Abraham, who is on the verge of sacrificing his son, Isaac. Abraham warns them about the impending doom of Sodom, advising them to steer clear of the sinful city.
Where:Desert
- 9
Captivity in Sodom
Despite Abraham's warning, Zed and Oh find themselves captured in Sodom. They face a terrifying fate at the hands of the guards as they are thrust into the corrupt political atmosphere of the city.
Where:Sodom
- 10
Cain's Unexpected Return
In a surprising twist, Cain reappears disguised as a guard, rescuing Zed and Oh and integrating them into the Sodom army. This act blurs the lines of loyalty for Zed and Oh as they navigate their new roles.
Where:Sodom
Show the other 5 events of Year One Hide the last 5 events
- 11
Zed's Romance with Inanna
Zed's experiences deepen as he develops feelings for Princess Inanna, who reciprocates his interest. Their budding romance is interrupted by the unsettling rituals taking place in Sodom's depraved society.
Where:Sodom
- 12
Ritual Sacrifice
In a bizarre display of devotion, the high priest sacrifices a virgin to invoke rain, emphasizing the city's moral decay. Zed's growing relationship with Inanna complicates matters as they grapple with the city's dark practices.
Where:Sodom
- 13
Trial and Sentencing
Zed's bold claim of being chosen by the gods leads to a corrupt trial where he and Oh are sentenced to starvation or exhaustion. The imminent sacrifice of Maaya, Eema, and Inanna invokes a sense of urgency and rebellion.
Where:Sodom
- 14
Zed's Rebellion
As tensions mount, Zed rises up against the King and high priest in a desperate attempt to save the destined sacrifices. His actions ignite a wave of defiance among the onlookers, who see him as a prophesied savior.
Where:Sodom
- 15
A New Beginning
In the aftermath of Zed's victory, he frees Maaya while Oh has a transformative moment with Eema. With Inanna now queen, Zed and Maaya set out toward Egypt, symbolizing hope and resilience as they embrace new adventures together.
Where:Road to Egypt
Who Are the Main Characters in Year One?
3 characters, among them Zed (Jack Black), Oh (Michael Cera) and Princess Inanna: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 2 of them link to the actor’s page.
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Zed (Jack Black)
Played by Jack Black
Zed is a dreamer yearning for respect within his primitive society. His impulsive decision to eat from the forbidden tree symbolizes his quest for independence. Throughout the film, Zed evolves, showing bravery and leadership in the face of challenges, ultimately rallying others to fight against oppression.
- 👨🌾 Adventurous
- 😅 Comedic
- 💔 Heartbroken
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Oh (Michael Cera)
Played by Michael Cera
Oh is portrayed as a timid gatherer who struggles with self-worth and seeks approval. His deep affection for Eema highlights his sensitive nature, contrasting with Zed’s boldness. As the story unfolds, Oh matures and finds his own courage, playing a vital role in their fight for freedom.
- 👦 Timid
- 💕 Lovelorn
- ⚖️ Loyal
- PI
Princess Inanna
Princess Inanna is a complex character, embodying strength and allure. Her feelings for Zed signify a union of ambition and destiny, yet she faces the stark realities of court life. Throughout the tumult, Inanna’s courage shines as she ultimately takes on a significant leadership role.
- 👸 Regal
- ❤️ Romantic
- 🎭 Strong
Where and When Is Year One Set?
Year One is set in primitive village, coastal town, Sodom and Egypt (Ancient Times). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
Ancient Times
The events of the movie unfold in ancient times, when tribal societies were prevalent and mythological elements shaped narratives. During this era, figures such as Cain and Abel are central characters, demonstrating the profound themes of conflict, sacrifice, and redemption in human history. The juxtaposition of divine prophecy and personal ambition drives the characters' actions, leading to moments of chaos and transformation.
Where
primitive village, coastal town, Sodom, Egypt
The story begins in a primitive village where Zed and the villagers grapple with tribal life. They journey to a coastal town where they confront enslavement and betrayal. Sodom, a city marked by sensuality and depravity, serves as the backdrop for Zed's intense encounters with its rulers and inhabitants. The narrative concludes with a hopeful journey to Egypt, hinting at new beginnings and explorations.
- 🏞️ Village
- 🌊 Coastal Town
- 🏙️ City
- 🏺 Ancient Egypt
What Are the Themes of Year One?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Rebellion, Love and Sacrifice and Betrayal.
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01
Rebellion
The theme of rebellion is prevalent as Zed rises against the tyranny of the King and high priest. His act of defiance inspires others, symbolizing hope and the fight against oppression. This struggle culminates in a collective uprising that embodies the spirit of resistance, leading to liberation from a corrupt rule.
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02
Love and Sacrifice
The movie explores love intertwined with sacrifice, as characters navigate their feelings amidst dire circumstances. Zed's affection for Princess Inanna and Oh's bond with Eema showcase personal connections that defy societal expectations. In the end, love emerges as a powerful motivator for action and change, even in the face of potential loss.
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03
Betrayal
Betrayal serves as a crucial element in the narrative, with characters like Cain showcasing the complexities of familial and social relationships. The treachery faced by Zed and Oh not only propels their journey but also highlights the consequences of self-interest. This theme underscores the harsh realities of trust and the fragile nature of alliances.
What Kind of Film Is Year One?
Light in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Fast
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A fast-paced, absurd buddy comedy that follows two hapless outcasts on a ridiculous journey through ancient times, filled with anachronistic humor and chaotic mishaps.
- humorous
- chaotic
- absurd
- lighthearted
- buddies
- adventurous
- biblical parody
- friendship
- tribal banishment
- cultural misunderstanding
Content notes: human sacrifice, enslavement.
Quiz
How well do you remember Year One? Test yourself on the story.
