The troubled veteran in the movie Standoff is named Carter, played by Thomas Jane. He has isolated himself in a cabin in the woods after experiencing trauma during his time in the military. One day, a young girl named Bird, played by Ella Ballentine, stumbles upon his cabin while fleeing from an assassin named Sade, played by Laurence Fishburne. Sade is after Bird because she witnessed him murder her family, and he wants to eliminate any witnesses to cover his tracks.
Carter takes it upon himself to protect Bird, even though he initially wants nothing to do with her. He doesn't want to get involved, but his conscience won't allow him to turn a blind eye. As Sade approaches the cabin, Carter grabs his shotgun and prepares for a showdown.
What follows is a tense game of cat and mouse as Carter and Sade engage in a physical and psychological battle for control. Carter is at a disadvantage as he only has one shell in his shotgun, while Sade is armed with a high-powered rifle. However, Carter's military training and quick thinking give him an edge as he utilizes the environment around him to outsmart Sade.
As the confrontation escalates, Carter and Sade engage in verbal sparring as well, revealing their contrasting worldviews and past traumas. Carter sees himself as a broken man trying to make amends, while Sade is a ruthless killer who justifies his actions as necessary for survival.
In the end, Carter's determination and willingness to sacrifice himself to save Bird allow him to come out on top. Standoff explores themes of redemption, trauma, and the lengths someone will go to protect what they believe is right.