After Hatching follows Max, who emerges from a mysterious egg into a surreal desert and discovers a hospital corridor that represents moments from the life of his partner, Alice. Guided by a silent young girl, he witnesses fragmented scenes of Alice’s past, present, and future while realizing he is no longer part of her life. As he moves toward a bright light at the end of the corridor, Max comes to terms with his absence and finds solace in knowing Alice continues to live a full life, even forming a family with someone else.

The story ultimately explores themes of mortality, acceptance, and the enduring impact of love, concluding with Max peacefully joining a larger, ambiguous existence beyond life.