After nearly losing his life in an accident, Portland alcoholic John Callahan is now in a wheelchair, and still drinking. When he reluctantly enters treatment—encouraged by his girlfriend and a charismatic sponsor—Callahan starts drawing irreverent cartoons that develop a national following.

Making full use of the incredible cast at his disposal, Gus Van Sant brings to life a by turns heart-wrenching and brashly comedic biopic of Portland comic artist John Callahan. One of Joaquin Phoenix’s finest performances is accented by a surprising and touching turn by Jonah Hill. A humanist gem.