Duane Hopwood

Duane Hopwood, a floor manager at Caesars Palace casino, faces the stark reality of his life spiraling out of control due to alcoholism. His deteriorating marriage to Linda has left him with only visitation rights to their daughters, Mary and Katie, symbolizing the emotional distance that now defines his family life.

While driving under the influence one night, Duane is pulled over by the police, revealing that his daughter Katie is in the backseat. This incident not only results in a DUI charge but also leads to the loss of his driving privileges, forcing him to rely on Linda for transportation.

Linda confronts Duane with distressing news about their lawyer's recommendation to revoke his visitation rights following his DUI. Her plea for him to refrain from drinking around their children strikes deeply, highlighting the fragility of his relationship with his daughters.

At Caesars Palace, Duane faces scrutiny after a difficult encounter with a volatile patron named Mrs. Fillipi, who blames him for Mr. Alonso's unexpected jackpot win. In a desperate attempt to save his job, Duane fabricates a story claiming that Alonso had funded his winnings, successfully escaping closer scrutiny for the moment.

Mary shares her heartfelt desire to escape her current life and dream about living with Duane, during a poignant visit at home. This conversation ignites a frantic argument among Duane, Linda, and Bob, igniting tensions that culminate in a near-violent confrontation for Duane.

Duane finds solace at a local bar, where he meets Gina, a warm-hearted bartender who listens to his troubles. Though initially resistant to his advances, she offers him a ride home that stirs a subtle connection between them, hinting at potential for a new beginning.

The following day, Duane faces the consequences of his actions when Carl informs him of incriminating footage showing him giving casino quarters to Alonso. The pressure of this revelation leads to Duane's dismissal, pushing him further into despair.

Overwhelmed with emotions after losing his job, Duane seeks refuge at Gina's place, where they briefly share an intimate moment. However, when he professes his lingering love for Linda, Gina walks away, leaving Duane isolated again.

Duane makes a courageous attempt to confront his addiction by attending an AA meeting. However, the depth of his emotional turmoil leads him to abandon the meeting prematurely, showcasing the ongoing challenge he faces in overcoming his demons.

During the hearing regarding his visitation rights, Duane passionately expresses how vital his daughters are to him. However, the situation takes a turn for the worse when Linda’s lawyer presents evidence from the earlier conflict involving the baseball bat, undermining his case.

Duane receives a sobering visit from his lawyer Steve, who outlines the grim possibilities of their situation. This meeting intensifies his emotional turmoil, leading him to seek out Linda in a desperate act of self-reflection.

In a fit of despair, Duane sabotages a comedy show at the casino, leading to his ejection by security. This act of frustration illustrates the extent of his spiraling behavior as he lashes out at the world around him.

Duane is blindsided when Linda announces that she and her new partner Bob are moving with their daughters to South Carolina. Acknowledging his role in their situation, he struggles with acceptance as she ensures him of future visits, but the pain of separation looms large.

The next day, Duane misses his chance to say goodbye to Linda and the kids as they leave for South Carolina. In a moment of whimsy, he dons a turkey costume and rides his bike to the casino, signaling a bittersweet farewell filled with regret and a hint of humor.

After saying goodbye, Duane begins to embrace healing from his past, rekindling his connection with Gina. Their gathering with Anthony for Thanksgiving symbolizes a step toward recovery as Duane chooses water over alcohol, representing his commitment to change.