Cast Away opens with a FedEx truck delivering a package to a woman in Memphis, TN. We see the package being placed in the truck and a few moments later, a FedEx truck opens again, but this time in the Former Soviet Union. Here we observe Chuck Noland, a time-constrained FedEx logistics guru and efficiency expert, who doesn't take no for an answer when faced with the challenges of delivering packages on time. In this particular case, he's holding up an egg timer, which he shipped himself from Memphis. Needless to say, Chuck's main goal is maximizing operations in the smallest amount of time available.

After spending a few moments with his wife during the holidays, Chuck is needed once again, and he is off on a plane. This time, his plane ride hits some turbulence.

After having a rather rough ride on the plane, he now finds himself on an island.

After a little while, Chuck also realizes he needs to eat, drink, and survive. It's certainly not easy, and there are many little obstacles along the way. It's these obstacles which make Cast Away a very entertaining experience.