Elizabeth and her rowing partner, Calvin, repeatedly capsized their boat during training despite their efforts on the water.
Elizabeth begrudgingly learns rowing concepts and techniques on an erg machine on land after failing in the water.
Calvin conceals the difficulty of rowing a pair from Elizabeth to keep her motivated, but their struggles on the water continue.
Despite her initial lack of patience and skill, Elizabeth eventually grasps the physics behind rowing, leading to improved performance and recognition.
Elizabeth is patronized by her boss, Dr. Donatti, who doubts her intellectual capabilities and diminishes her scientific research.
Donatti's antagonism towards Elizabeth has roots in his past rowing experience at Harvard and his ongoing rivalry with Calvin.
Donatti's personal biases and background shape his condescending attitude towards Elizabeth and his manipulative behavior.
Elizabeth grapples with self-doubt and contemplates her career after Donatti undermines her, while a lab mate seeks her advice on his own seemingly significant findings.
Calvin understands the difficulties Elizabeth faces at the research institute but determines not to intervene on her behalf.
Nonetheless, Calvin confronts Donatti after suspecting him of trying to cancel Elizabeth's research project.
Donatti responds to Calvin's accusations with dismissive remarks and claims to be promoting Elizabeth's career growth.
Donatti's plans to undermine Calvin by sabotaging his relationship with Elizabeth are thwarted by an unexpected donor who supports Elizabeth's research.
Elizabeth excitedly shares with Calvin the news that her project is reinstated, unaware of his involvement in resolving the issue behind the scenes.
Elizabeth continues her pursuit of rowing by joining a men's eight team, aiming for better coordination and reduced chances of flipping the boat.
Calvin and Elizabeth successfully complete a practice session with the men's team, with Calvin believing he has secretly protected her yet again.
Elizabeth begins to question the rumors about Calvin's alleged tendency to hold grudges, with Calvin denying any malice in his professional relationships.