Permanent Midnight

As the rehabilitation program draws to a close, Jerry Stahl makes a life-altering decision to quit his mundane fast-food job. This impulsive choice is sparked by his infatuation with Kitty, who captures his attention at the drive-through window.

Jerry and Kitty's chemistry quickly turns into a passionate romance. Their connection deepens during intimate moments in a motel room where Jerry begins to unburden his chaotic life story to her.

Jerry's journey rewinds to his significant move from New York City to Los Angeles. It marks a new chapter in his life where he makes an immediate bond with Nicky, a fellow addict who plays a crucial role in Jerry's addiction.

Under Nicky's influence, Jerry marries Sandra, a friend of Vola's. This marriage surprisingly paves the way for Jerry's writing career, thanks to Sandra's connections in the television world.

With Sandra's help, Jerry secures a writing position on the popular comedy series *Mr. Chompers*. He begins to channel his childhood experiences into his sketches, particularly the trauma from his mother’s death following his father's passing.

Despite his newfound career, Jerry's addiction rebounds as he repeatedly visits Dita, a heroin dealer. This downward spiral ultimately leads to his dismissal from *Mr. Chompers*, marking a setback in his writing pursuits.

Sandra steps in once more to help Jerry secure a role on *No Such Luck*. However, his co-star Pamela Verlaine mandates that he must enter treatment for his addiction before he can return to work.

Jerry enrolls in a methadone program to combat his addiction. Within this environment, he meets Gus, who introduces him to the more dangerous allure of crack cocaine and Dilaudid, escalating his substance abuse.

Jerry's escalating addiction adversely affects his relationships, particularly with Sandra and their unborn child. The situation worsens when Jerry arrives high during the birth of their daughter, Nina.

As time passes, Jerry's ongoing struggles with addiction seriously strain his familial bonds. These hardships culminate when he decides to return to Los Angeles, determined to rekindle his connection with Nina.

Upon returning to Los Angeles, Jerry unexpectedly encounters Kitty once again. This meeting ignites one final passionate interaction, leaving Jerry to ponder the ramifications of their relationship as she departs for Anchorage.

Throughout his tumultuous journey, Jerry finds himself making various appearances on television shows and news segments. These moments encapsulate his struggle with addiction, highlighted by introspective voiceovers.

In an emotionally charged conclusion, Jerry contemplates the many misfortunes that have befallen him due to his addiction. His reflections reveal the long-lasting impacts of his past mistakes and the uncertain path toward redemption.

With a heavy heart, Jerry articulates the burdens he carries, including health issues and overwhelming debt. His stark realizations about his addiction and its consequences serve as a harsh but honest reminder of the life he seeks to reclaim.