Travis and Wendell, played by John Travolta and Arye Gross respectively, are two struggling New Yorkers living in the 1980s. They are approached by a man named Mr. Yakovlev, who offers to hire them to open a nightclub in a small town in the Midwest. Desperate for a change in fortunes, they agree and are flown to the supposed town of Lincoln, Nebraska.
However, upon arrival, they quickly realize that something is amiss. The town is devoid of any real residents, and their planned nightclub is located in a deserted warehouse. It soon becomes clear that they have been kidnapped by the KGB and flown to the Soviet Union.
Travis and Wendell are tasked with teaching a group of young Soviet agents about American culture and nightlife, in the hopes of improving their espionage skills. The two Americans are treated as celebrities in the Soviet Union, enjoying luxuries such as hot tubs and fancy cars, blissfully unaware of the true nature of their situation.
As Travis and Wendell attempt to navigate their new surroundings, they begin to unravel the truth about their captivity. With the help of a sympathetic Soviet agent, they plot their escape, but not before getting caught up in a high-speed car chase through the streets of Moscow.
The Experts ultimately delivers a message about the dangers of ignorance and the importance of questioning one's surroundings. The talented comedic performances from the lead actors and the film's clever send-up of Cold War-era spy movies make for a fun and entertaining ride.