Spanking the Monkey

Ray Aibelli faces a difficult choice between a prestigious medical internship at MIT and caring for his ailing mother, Susan. The pressure intensifies as he realizes the emotional turmoil caused by his father’s prolonged absence due to business.

Susan suffers from a leg injury that confines her to their home, complicating the family dynamics. Her dependence on Ray grows as she grapples with feelings of neglect caused by Tom's infidelity.

Taking on the role of primary caregiver shifts Ray's relationship with Susan significantly. He begins to experience an unintended emotional bond that complicates their traditional mother-son dynamic.

While helping his mother with her shower, Ray inadvertently becomes aware of a burgeoning attraction to Susan. This moment triggers guilt and confusion, compelling him to confront his feelings.

In an attempt to cope with his emotional isolation, Ray pursues a relationship with Toni Peck. However, his struggles with communication lead to Toni's rejection, accentuating his loneliness.

Amidst his loneliness, Ray confides in Susan about his failed romance, causing their relationship to deepen dangerously. Their conversations blur the boundaries of a typical mother-son relationship.

Just as Ray contemplates escaping his familial obligations, Aunt Helen offers to take over as caretaker. However, Ray finds himself caught in a moment of intimacy with Susan that complicates his decision.

Following a profound encounter with his mother, Ray misses the bus to MIT, jeopardizing his educational future. Tom informs him that he can no longer support his tuition, leaving Ray in a precarious situation.

Ray shares passionate moments with Toni, only to face an abrupt interruption from Susan. This clash escalates into a chaotic argument, leaving Toni distraught and seeking solace from her father.

In a moment of extreme despair, Ray contemplates suicide in the bathroom, triggered by his tumultuous feelings towards his mother. A timely intervention from Susan prevents the unthinkable, but not without repercussions.

Following their passionate interactions, Ray's emotions teeter on the edge of violence against Susan. The situation escalates further, reflecting the chaos in Ray's psyche.

Confronted by the weight of his issues, Ray jumps off a cliff in a reckless act driven by emotional turmoil. This impulsive decision signifies his growing instability and desire to escape his situation.

The morning after his reckless jump, Ray finds himself hitchhiking with a truck driver. Confusion and fear swirl in his mind as he ponders the uncertain future that now lies ahead.