In the bustling and bohemian scene of Los Angeles, a free-spirited writer named Henry Chinaski slips between the shadows of bars and solitude. This character, portrayed by the brilliant Mickey Rourke, is a semi-autobiographical version of Charles Bukowski, who embarks on an endless quest for inspiration and connection in a world that seems to offer him nothing but misery.
Henry spends his nights navigating between glasses of alcohol and philosophical conversations with other misfits, while his existence is marked by apathy and hopelessness. With a self-destructive lifestyle and a defiant attitude, he feels more at home among the bottles than in everyday life. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Wanda, a tumultuous and passionate woman who embodies the complexity of love and emotional dependency. The chemistry between them is palpable, yet their relationship becomes a chaotic journey that swings between unrestrained passion and overwhelming sorrow.
As Henry and Wanda's love develops amid the chaos of the bar, Henry's internal demons emerge with increasing intensity, prompting both characters to question their desires and their place in the world. The film delves into the struggle of the human soul, exploring the beauty of life despite its brutality, all presented with Bukowski's harsh yet captivating prose.