Hillbilly Elegy

In 1997, J.D. finds himself back in Jackson, Kentucky, reminiscing about his teenage years. During his visit, he spends time with his family, particularly his grandparents and his mother, Bev, hinting at a complicated relationship.

Following their visit, J.D. and his family return to their home in Ohio. This transition marks a significant change for J.D., as he prepares to navigate the complexities of his upbringing in a challenging environment.

Fast-forwarding fourteen years, J.D. is now a student at Yale, managing three jobs. His commitment to his education is evident, but he also has a budding romance with Usha, who has secured an internship in Washington D.C.

While at an event to network for an internship, J.D. receives a distressing call from his sister, Lindsay. She informs him that their mother, Bev, has been hospitalized due to a heroin overdose, prompting J.D. to reconsider his priorities.

J.D. reflects on his tumultuous relationship with his mother, marked by instability. He recalls a significant moment from his childhood involving a dangerous car ride where he was physically abused, leading him to call the police and witness his mother's arrest.

In 2011, J.D. drives back to Ohio to be with his family during this crisis. Along the way, he reminisces about 1997, particularly the unwavering support of his grandparents during a tumultuous time with his mother.

Upon arriving at the hospital, J.D. witnesses his mother yelling at a nurse, which reveals her unstable state. To his dismay, he learns that she will be discharged due to lack of health insurance, highlighting the family’s struggles.

As the family deals with Bev's issues, J.D. and Lindsay come together to secure a place for their mother in a rehabilitation facility. J.D.'s willingness to help is challenged by Bev's refusal to commit to recovery.

J.D. remembers the passing of his grandfather in 1997, which deeply affected the family. During this time, his mother begins stealing drugs from her job, spiraling into further addiction and causing emotional turmoil in the household.

By 2011, J.D. observes the continued instability in his mother's life as she moves in with her boss, Ken, and his new husband. Her destructive behavior escalates, further complicating the family's dynamics and impacting J.D.'s mental state.

J.D. reflects on the stabilizing presence of his grandmother during his childhood. Her guidance helped him avoid trouble and fostered his academic success, creating a stark contrast to the chaos caused by his mother.

After his grandmother’s passing, J.D. joins the Marines. This decision marks a turning point in his life, as he later utilizes the G.I. Bill to pursue higher education, seeking a better future amidst family turmoil.

As 2011 progresses, J.D. secures a motel room and food for Bev, showing his dedication to supporting his family despite their challenges. He prepares to drive back to Yale for a critical interview, balancing his past and future.

Throughout his journey, J.D. is constantly faced with the legacy of his family's struggles. He grapples with the emotional weight of his upbringing while aiming for stability and success in his own life.