Don Jon

Jon Martello leads a life defined by his own set of priorities, which include his body, his pad, and his relationships. He often indulges in casual encounters and online pornography, seeking escapism but feeling a lingering emptiness in his life.

During a night out with friends, Jon meets Barbara Sugarman, an encounter that initially seems promising. Despite their connection, he fails to charm her into a one-night stand, prompting him to seek her out further.

Determined to get to know Barbara better, Jon uses Facebook to gather information about her and invites her to lunch. Their chemistry is evident, but Barbara desires a traditional courtship without physical intimacy.

Over the month that follows, Jon and Barbara's relationship deepens as they meet each other's families and share experiences. Barbara encourages Jon to pursue night classes to secure an office job and introduces him to romance films.

The couple eventually shares their first intimate moment, which marks a turning point in their relationship. However, Jon grapples with dissatisfaction despite this milestone.

After their intimacy, Jon sneaks away to indulge in his regular pornography habit while Barbara sleeps. When Barbara discovers his betrayal, she is devastated and confronts him about his compulsive behavior.

In the weeks that follow, Jon continues to struggle with his pornography addiction, often seeking it out in secret. He tries to manage his relationship with Barbara but finds it increasingly difficult.

While attending night classes, Jon meets Esther, a middle-aged woman. Their connection grows deeper as she shares her own experiences, attempting to guide Jon away from his destructive habits.

Unable to resist his impulses, Jon and Esther share an unexpected sexual encounter in her car. This complicates Jon’s already turbulent feelings toward his relationship with Barbara and his addiction.

Esther opens up about her tragic loss of family, illustrating the importance of genuine connection in intimate relationships. Her wisdom begins to reshape Jon’s understanding of sex and intimacy.

As he learns to connect more deeply with others, Jon shifts from a mindset focused on casual encounters to one seeking authentic intimacy. He starts recording his new experiences in a notebook filled with hope rather than regret.

Jon breaks the news of his breakup with Barbara to his family, where their disappointment is evident. His sister suggests that Barbara's feelings were superficial, prompting Jon to reflect on his own realizations.

In a moment of clarity, Jon reaches out to Barbara to apologize for his earlier dishonesty regarding his porn habits. However, her inability to accept his perspective solidifies his decision to move on.

Jon embraces a renewed focus on friendships and healthy connections, favoring group activities like basketball over solitary weightlifting. This marks the beginning of a healthier relationship dynamic with Esther.

Throughout his evolving relationship with Esther, Jon finds contentment in their shared experiences. Although they resist the labels of marriage or love, their bond reflects a deeper understanding and intimacy than he has ever known.