Is it true that every person is a hero not yet realized? Or do they only exist in holograms? Cinematographer Ian "Mac" MacIntyre needs to revive a sinking career. His new job involves directing and recording a reality show, The Adventures of Captain Charisma. The episodes will portray his actor's exploits as he visits the farthest reaches of the galaxy.

When the producer sends Captain Charisma to smash a dangerous alien bug aboard a space station and milk the ratings, Mac sweats over his own safety and his actor's peril. As a paunchy, balding guy approaching middle age, Mac isn't built for heroics. However, the producer insists on exciting footage.

The show's rating success is thrown into question when Mac's ex-wife, Rose, appears as a director for a rival show. Despite power failing on the damaged station, Mac must put his actor (and himself) into the monster's path to create unforgettable scenes and to prove he is a better director than Rose. A wrong step and he might lose a ratings war and his reality show. Worse, he and his actor could end up as bug food.