Crossword puzzle constructor Mary Horowitz (Sandra Bullock) is strange and unpopular. When she meets weather journalist Steve (Bradley Cooper) on a blind date, Mary believes she has met her soulmate and is determined to pursue him wherever necessary. Steve's fellow journalist Hartman Hughes (Thomas Haden Church) encourages Mary's infatuation, taking pleasure in Steve's torture. As Mary follows the news team across the country, she becomes embroiled in the biggest news story of the year.