Igby Goes Down

Jason 'Igby' Slocumb Jr. feels trapped in his wealthy East Coast family, longing for freedom from their expectations. His father's institutionalization due to schizophrenia fuels Igby's fear of mental instability, intensifying his rebellion against his family's norms.

Igby struggles with his relationship with his mother, Mimi, who is emotionally distant and resorts to alcohol. He also harbors resentment toward his older brother, Ollie, who studies 'neo-fascism' at Columbia, which Igby perceives as part of his family's oppressive structure.

Determined to escape his family's grasp, Igby flunks out of several private schools. His lack of motivation culminates in him being sent to a strict military academy, where he experiences bullying and struggles to fit in.

After enduring relentless bullying at the military academy, Igby escapes to a Chicago hotel, funded by his mother's credit card. This temporary freedom allows him to reflect on his life away from the oppressive environment of his family.

Igby is sent to New York for the summer to live with his wealthy godfather, D. H. Banes. This move marks a critical shift in Igby's life as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery.

While working for his godfather, Igby meets Rachel, a troubled trophy mistress battling heroin addiction. This encounter pulls Igby deeper into the chaotic and alluring bohemian lifestyle of Manhattan.

Igby and Rachel's relationship intensifies as they engage in a sexual encounter, deepening Igby's emotional turmoil. However, their moment of intimacy is shattered when D. H. discovers them, leading to Rachel's violent reaction as she fears for her unstable situation.

After his encounter with Rachel, Igby reconnects briefly with Sookie, a part-time lover. Torn by betrayal when Sookie leaves him for Ollie, Igby feels increasingly isolated in his quest for belonging.

Igby's world is shaken when D. H. reveals that Mimi is gravely ill with breast cancer. This news prompts Igby to return home, facing the reality of his family's dysfunction and his mother's impending death.

As Mimi faces her last moments, she requests Igby's presence, having planned her own death with Ollie's help. This shocking revelation forces Igby to confront the painful truth of his family dynamics and the choices they have made.

Before passing, Mimi discloses a shocking truth to Igby, declaring D. H. as his biological father. This revelation leaves Igby reeling, questioning everything he thought he knew about himself and his family.

Following Mimi's death, Igby visits his institutionalized father, Jason, struggling with his legacy. As he prepares to leave for Los Angeles, he seeks closure and a path toward freedom from his family's burdens.

Determined to break free from his tumultuous family history, Igby decides to relocate to Los Angeles. This choice represents his aspiration for a fresh start, distancing himself from the emotional trauma he endured.