Red Rocket 2015

Mikey Saber, a former adult film star played by Simon Rex, returns to his hometown of Texas City after many years, visibly bruised and carrying the weight of his past. He arrives at the home of his estranged wife Lexi, portrayed by Bree Elrod, and her mother Lil (Brenda Deiss), along with their dog Sophie. Lexi, who harbors resentment towards Mikey, is quick to threaten calling the police, but Mikey pleads to stay until he can get back on his feet, explaining his lack of steady work and uncertain future.

The story unfolds as Mikey attempts to rebuild his life. It is revealed that he hasn’t held a genuine job in 17 years, due to his long career in the adult entertainment industry, where he met Lexi. Despite his honesty, potential employers reject him, forcing Mikey to seek alternative means of income. He starts selling weed for local dealer Leondria (Judy Hill) and her daughter June (Brittany Rodriguez). Mikey quickly proves himself in this new venture, rolling joints and selling to local customers, including a fascinated neighbor, Lonnie (Ethan Darbone), with whom Mikey reconnects and shares stories about his past.

During this period, Mikey also meets a teenage girl, Strawberry (Suzanna Son), a charming donut shop clerk. Mikey becomes enamored with her, attempting to spend time with her behind the counter and later taking her out on a date. He lies about his reasons for returning to Texas, claiming he’s caring for his sick mother, and gets involved in selling weed to construction workers based on Strawberry’s advice. Their relationship deepens, despite Strawberry being close to turning 18, which complicates their dynamic.

Mikey’s interactions with Strawberry lead to a romantic relationship, and they share intimate moments, including Mikey’s first sex with her. They enjoy a playful first date at a strip club, where Strawberry gets a lap dance. Meanwhile, Mikey’s relationship with Lexi becomes strained; she has a son named Eric whom she lost custody of, and her own struggles with her past become evident. When Lexi confronts Mikey about his whereabouts and lifestyle, she becomes angry, resulting in a heated argument and her tossing a coffee pot at him.

Mikey and Strawberry’s bond intensifies, culminating in them filming themselves together. Strawberry openly accepts Mikey’s past as a porn star, which Mikey hopes to leverage for a career comeback, envisioning getting her into the industry. However, their plans are overshadowed when Mikey witnesses a serious car accident caused by his friend Lonnie, who lies about the incident under Mikey’s influence. The crash results in extensive media coverage, and police arrest Lonnie, who later takes responsibility publicly.

As Mikey prepares to leave Texas with Strawberry to start anew in California, trouble strikes. Lexi, Lil, and their associates rob Mikey of his savings intended for the trip, leaving him with only a small amount of money and no prospects. Despite desperate efforts to hold onto his plans, Mikey is left with nothing but his memories and the hope of a fresh start. He ultimately walks away alone, heading out of town while envisioning a future he once dreamed of with Strawberry, tears streaming down his face, symbolizing both loss and longing.