In New Orleans, Thierry Martin (Judge Rheinhold) used to write poetry, but has become dried up since taking over the family business. His wife Zandalee (Erika Anderson) would be the first to reveal this to anyone who will listen. When Thierry meets an old friend Johnny Collins (Nicolas Cage), he gives the painter who is brimming with slimey energy and smarmy resentment a job and access to his wife who expresses her dislike for him. Thereby hangs the tale of adultery. Johnny is a former convict who regularly takes cocaine and keeps unfortunate company like OPP Man (Steve Buscemi), which may be indicative of later problems. He begins a torrid romance with his friend’s wife.