Richard Dunn (Jeff Daniels) is a lonely, unsuccessful novelist who has been sent away to a house in Long Island by his wife Claire Dunn (Lisa Kudrow), in order to have the quiet and inspiration to write a successful book. Feeling lonely, Richard hires teen Abby (Emma Stone) to provide some help to him around the house. Along with Richard's imaginary friend, Captain Excellent (Ryan Reynolds), Abby soon becomes a source of comfort for Richard, and the two quickly strike up an unlikely friendship. Through this new friendship, both Richard and Abby will learn a lot about life, friendship, and what it truly means to grow up.