In a desperate bid for a better life, a group of down-and-outs makes a shocking pact they will select one among them by lot to enjoy a year of luxury, funded by their collective savings. However, this fortunate individual must face a grim fate—ending his life after the year is up, allowing the others to cash in on his life insurance policy. As fate would have it, the chosen one experiences an unforeseen twist of fortune, forcing him to grapple with his honor and the dark promise made. Will he find a way to escape this deadly deal, or will he betray his friends and welch on their agreement? The phrase Bucking the tiger alludes to Faro, a popular card game in the 1800s, named after early card backs that featured a striking Bengal tiger.