Aldolpho (Steve Buscemi) is an aspiring writer who has penned a script called Unconditional Surrender. But needing money to pay the rent, Aldolpho decides to sell the script: enter Joe (Seymour Cassel), who much to Aldolpho's surprise, is not so much interested in buying the script as in producing the movie. So, with Aldolpho's help, Joe sets out to raise the money through a variety of crimes, including theft and drug dealing. While Aldopho is uncertain about Joe's method's, his desire to make the movie overcomes his scruples, not only because he wants to put his beautiful next-door neighbour Angelica (Jennifer Beals) in the starring role.