Atlantic City

The film opens with a close-up of a knife slicing lemons. We see Sally, portrayed by Susan Sarandon, washing herself with lemon juice at her kitchen sink in Atlantic City, while listening to an operatic aria. This moment sets the stage for her character's unique blend of fragility and strength.

Dave and Chrissie are introduced as they hitchhike together, dressed in a bohemian style. They walk along the marshes of New Jersey, eventually making their way to Atlantic City's boardwalk, where they plan to reconnect with Sally, who is unaware of their intentions.

Dave and Chrissie find Sally at the seafood restaurant where she works. Sally is initially resistant to letting them stay, indicating the strain in her relationship with Dave. However, her resolve softens, and she relents, allowing them into her life once again.

Lou, an older man spying on Sally, visits Grace, a woman from his past. Their combative relationship reveals aspects of Lou's life as a small-time bookie. He carries out errands for her, showcasing his co-dependent dynamic with Grace.

Sally is taking classes to become a blackjack dealer, with dreams of Monte Carlo on the horizon. This ambition evokes her desires for a life beyond her current circumstances, highlighting her character's resilience and hopes.

At a bar, Dave attempts to sell the heroin he stole from Lou. He meets with Fred O'Reilly, who is involved in organized crime. The deal falls apart when Fred refuses to do business with him, leaving Dave desperate for cash.

After selling the drugs, Dave attempts to escape the consequences of his actions. When he is pursued by a blond gangster, a violent confrontation ensues, culminating in a chase that leads to Dave's tragic stabbing.

The police return Sally's wallet, revealing that Dave was behind its theft. In a moment of realization, she rushes to the hospital, where she witnesses the harrowing moment of Dave's death, underscoring her emotional turmoil.

Lou encounters Sally at the hospital, where he offers support in her time of grief. Their connection deepens as they navigate their shared losses, with Lou stepping in to assist her in communicating with Dave's parents.

After learning of Dave's death, Lou begins to engage in more illicit activities, cutting the remaining drugs. He reveals more of his past to Grace as he prepares to leave, highlighting his conflicted nature and desperation.

Sally attends her blackjack dealing class but is fired due to her connection to the drug scene. This pivotal moment reflects the collapse of her aspirations and the weight of her circumstances that increasingly encircle her.

A confrontation erupts in a casino between Lou and the gangsters demanding their drug money. Sally, caught in the turmoil, violently reacts and creates a scene, forcing both her and Lou into a precarious situation.

Following a violent encounter, Lou shoots the gangsters who threaten him and Sally. Their reckless escape leads them to a hotel, where they attempt to find solace amidst the chaos they’ve created.

Lou, now grappling with the weight of his actions, confesses to Grace about the murders he committed. His pride contrasts with the heaviness of the truth, isolating him further from those around him.

As the dust settles, Lou shares a moment of connection with Grace, suggesting a new beginning for both of them. The film concludes with a haunting image of change, symbolized by a wrecking ball demolishing a hotel, reflecting the devastation they have endured.