Trees Lounge 1996

Tommy's Struggles Begin

Tommy Basilio finds himself grappling with alcoholism, which spirals his life into chaos. He loses both his girlfriend of eight years and his job as a mechanic, forcing him to confront the consequences of his addiction.

Uncle Al's Wake

After the death of his Uncle Al, who operated an ice cream truck, Tommy attends the wake where family bonds fray amid substances. Here, he indulges in cocaine with his brother and cousins, compounding his existing issues.

The Fight at Trees Lounge

Tommy brings his relatives to the *Trees Lounge*, where a brawl erupts between his cousin and Mike, another patron. This violence reflects the tensions in Tommy’s life and foreshadows the unraveling relationships around him.

Reflection with Mike

Later, Tommy engages in a deep conversation with Mike at a convenience store, reflecting on his past mistakes. He confesses to stealing money from Rob, the garage owner who is now dating his ex-girlfriend, casting doubt on the paternity of her child.

Job Offer Declined

Mike, the owner of a moving company near the *Trees Lounge*, declines to offer Tommy a job due to a lack of need for a mechanic. Feeling hopeless, Tommy decides to take over Uncle Al's ice cream route to try to regain some stability.

Struggling with Sales

As Tommy takes on the ice cream route, he initially struggles to sell ice cream to local children. His confidence falters, and he begins to feel the weight of his responsibilities amidst his chaotic lifestyle.

Unexpected Companion

Debbie, the flirtatious seventeen-year-old niece of Theresa, unexpectedly joins Tommy on his ice cream route. She reveals she dreamt about him, adding to the complexities of Tommy's already tumultuous life.

Struggles Shared

Mike’s personal dilemmas surface as he faces abandonment after his wife and daughter leave him due to his heavy drinking. This shared struggle between Tommy and Mike showcases their desperation and need for connection.

Night Out Turns Sour

Debbie and her friend Kelly visit the *Trees Lounge*, claiming their legal drinking age and seeking validation from Tommy. Their night takes a sour turn when Mike's wife's call interrupts their drinking session, exposing the harsh realities of their lives.

Debbie's Dilemma

After spending the night together, Debbie realizes her father, Jerry, might disapprove of her choices. In a panic, she calls Tommy for refuge, but fearing Jerry's wrath, he sadly turns her away.

Jerry's Search

Concerned for his daughter, Jerry embarks on a quest to find Debbie, leading him to confront Tommy at the *Trees Lounge*. The tension between the two men escalates as Jerry's protective instincts clash with Tommy's troubled state.

Confrontation

The next day, Jerry finds Tommy outside a baseball game and in a fit of rage, brutally attacks him with a baseball bat. He destroys Tommy's ice cream truck, scattering his money and ice cream, leaving Tommy humiliated and exposed.

Birth and Regret

After Theresa gives birth, Tommy attempts to make amends at the hospital but is met with indifference. His journey back to the *Trees Lounge* results in hearing about Bill’s critical condition, reflecting the neglect he feels in his life.