River Phoenix, sporting a short back and sides, stars opposite Lili Taylor (Household Saints) in an epic, bittersweet love story set against the backdrop of the looming Vietnam war.
Mousy waitress and aspiring musician Rose (Taylor) reluctantly accepts a date with the devilishly charming marine recruit Eddie Birdlace (Phoenix), unaware that he’s participating in a “dogfight” – a bet with his friends to bring the ugliest girl to the party. As the night unfolds and the cruel game is revealed, Eddie's initial insensitivity gives way to unexpected tenderness as the pair share a night that will remain etched in their memories. The next morning, Eddie ships out to Vietnam. Aided by evocative performances and a soundtrack that captures the mood of the moment (Muddy Waters, Van Morrison, and Pete Seeger), Savoca tells a uniquely arresting love story that has maintained its cult status.