Inspired by horrific real events. Danny, a teenager with autism, escapes the inner city for the beautiful countryside as part of his Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme. Little does he know, that bitter Nicholas is hunting him, stemming from a lie created by the enamored and envious Julia and Calvin. As the three close in on Danny, Nicholas' behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent, and Julia and Calvin must decide whether to go through with Nicholas' deadly plan to see him suffer. Cruel Summer is an exploration into the harrowing consequences and impact one tragic act of seemingly random violence can have on society at large.