Brian Finch used to be your average 28 year old, he was jobless, he was a failing musician who failed to record a single track for his new album, until one of his old band members offered him a pill, later revealed to be called NZT that could help him. When Brian came back for more, he discovered his friend was killed, and his apartment was wrecked. Brian however knew exactly where his friend keeps his stash. He took the pill, and even though he was innocent, escaped from FBI who were just arriving. He later contacted the same people who chased him, and helped them find the actual killer. He was then hired by the FBI and allowed one NZT pill a day, deliver to him by the FBI. Ever since he has worked in cracking even the most difficult cases with his newly gained intelligence, perfect recall and perception. What the FBI doesn't know is he also works for Senator Moore (Bradley Cooper) who gives him a shot that removes the side effects of NZT, in order for him to get some insight in FBI and help Moore.