This is a true story set against the backdrop of 1980s New Orleans. Handsome young man Sonny (played by James Franco) has just been discharged from the military. His family background and experiences are extremely unique. Sonny's mother, Jewel (played by Brenda Blethyn), is a well-known brothel owner in New Orleans. After her establishment began to decline, she fantasizes about turning her son, who is favored by many older women, into the brothel's star attraction. Before joining the military, Sonny was already a well-known male escort in the area. To escape this debauched life, Sonny enlisted in the military, leaving his mother behind. However, after being discharged, Sonny, with nowhere to go, has no choice but to return to New Orleans, where he seeks a legitimate job to support himself and escape from his mother and the shameful industry. But his mother is determined for Sonny to inherit her business. Meanwhile, Sonny, struggling with pain and inner conflict, falls in love with a new girl at the brothel, Carol (played by Mina Suvari). He must make a choice: to stay and live according to his mother's wishes, or to fight bravely for his dignity and love.