In a small rural town in Ohio, a young man named J.D. Vance struggles to find his way amidst a complicated family environment. The story unfolds across two timelines: on one hand, we see J.D.'s tumultuous past, marked by the upbringing of his mother, a passionate woman trapped in a cycle of addiction and emotional crisis. Through flashbacks, it is revealed how his grandmother, a strong and resilient figure, plays a crucial role in J.D.'s life, providing him with stability amid the chaos.
With the dream of attending college and building a better future, J.D. faces constant obstacles that make him rethink his identity and roots. His experiences reflect the struggle of many in the American working class, dealing with the stigma of poverty and rootlessness. J.D.'s personal journey intertwines with themes of family, loyalty, and the desire to escape a seemingly inevitable fate.
As he navigates the complexity of his family relationships and his own ambitions, the young man is compelled to reconcile his love for his home with his desire to move forward in a world that often seems to be against him. Ultimately, his story seeks to lead the audience to a profound reflection on family, sacrifice, and resilience in times of adversity.