The Purkinje Effect

The film follows Jessup, a leading expert in extinct toads, who shares his extraordinary experiences after an expedition to the Black Rock Desert. Upon returning, he reveals his encounter with a Czech anatomist living among a lost tribe of hippies. This anatomist has discovered a unique psychoactive substance, which Jessup names Obliterene, and plans to replicate it for a special gathering.

As Jessup invites his close-knit group of former classmates from Bard, they engage in a mysterious experience fueled by Obliterene during a total solar eclipse on the winter solstice. The narrative explores themes of intellect, camaraderie, and the complexities of loss as the five academics compete and reminisce about their shared past and the sixth member who is no longer with them.