A documentary-style comedy-drama follows a group of people living on the fringe of society. At the group's core is Derek Noakes, a tender, ingenuous man who works at a retirement home. His love for his job and the people he cares for is evident in everything he does. Derek is in his 40s and is vulnerable to being ridiculed and ostracized because of his childlike nature, diminished intelligence and social awkwardness. Among his co-workers at the home are Dougie, his friend and landlord, and Hannah, his best friend who is smart and hard-working but unlucky in love. Writer-director Ricky Gervais stars in the title role, which is based on a character he created for his stand-up routine.