It's the mid-1970s in rural upstate New York, and idealism crashes head on into practicality in the form of Jules and Candy.
The artistic and esoteric Jules is out for a ride in his bitchin' muscle car, enjoying a couple of brews with his more down to earth girl, Candy. Jules recounts tracking down money owed to him by a less than reputable employer, Larry Craig. All is well for the self-satisfied Jules with his tale of payment, until the car runs out of fuel. Candy, on fire with a couple of beers under her belt, berates Jules for their "broke down" situation. Making light of their plight, Jules suggests a respite down by the riverside. Together at the scenic water's edge, Jules pontificates on his world view, contrasting himself with the slimy local contractors upon whom he depends for income. Candy, frustrated by his 'head in the clouds' smug self imagery, stalks off, leaving Jules with some stunningly dismissive personal criticisms. Candy hitch-hikes away in anger. A helpless Jules watches his girl ride off with a seemingly more upscale other guy. Knowing she would end up in only one place, Jules tracks her down to the local watering hole where her now inebriated driver attempts to wow her by making some hilariously inept attempts at billiards. Jules approaches Candy, unsure of his present standing. Candy faces the choice of going back to the same old, same old or going with something new and possibly far worse.