ADVERTISEMENT The only fictional character in the film is Fern, but given McDormand's laid-back attitude, earthy essence, and penchant for accepting awards in a denim jacket, she fits in perfectly with this rag-tag group of modern nomads. Fern, a widow in her 60s, is forced into living a transient life after she loses everything in the recession. She takes on odd jobs to make ends meet, including working at an Amazon warehouse for a period of time. She learns basic survival skills and self-sufficiency from the other nomads who welcome her into their community. Her story may be fictional, but it encapsulates the story of so many Americans who are living off the grid, and embracing the nomad lifestyle, in order to survive the forever changing political and socio-economic landscape.