Whale Talk centers around Tao Jones, commonly known as T. J., and a group of high school outcasts who come together to form an unconventional swim team at Cutter High School. At Cutter High, earning a sports jacket is the most esteemed symbol, likened by T. J. to the "shroud of Turin." This jacket also represents the prejudiced attitudes and narrow-mindedness that T. J. strongly opposes. Determined to undermine the influence this group holds at Cutter High and to seek retribution for the injustices he has endured, T. J. embarks on a mission to secure a letter jacket for each member of the swim team, which consists of teenagers with emotional and physical challenges.

While practicing at the All Night Fitness gym, T. J. meets Icko, a man who actually resides in the gym. T. J. recruits Icko to become their swim coach. The gym transforms into the team's personal sanctuary, where these students can freely express their true selves, leaving behind the prejudice and mistreatment they encounter daily. For the first time, they experience a true sense of belonging. Through mutual support and teamwork, these young men not only achieve the prized Cutter letter jacket but also gain personal dignity and respect.