Based on the novel by Hubert Selby Jnr, the film follows heroin addicts Harry (Leto) and Tyrone (Marlon Wayans) as they look to make some cash as drug dealers. Accompanied by Harry’s girlfriend Marion (Connolly), the trio attempt to get their business off the ground but are soon hit by a number of problems.
With their Florida supplier cutting back on distribution and Tyrone sent to jail for his involvement in a gang shooting, Harry is forced to travel to Miami to try and score the drugs while Marion is forced into prostitution in order to feed her habit. Meanwhile, Harry’s mother Sara (Burstyn) becomes addicted to weight loss pills and is hospitalised after suffering from debilitating hallucinations.