The film's main ensemble cast starred Diane Lane, Tim Robbins, James Gandolfini and Patrick Fugit.

[2] The film begins in 1971 with Craig Gilbert (James Gandolfini) discussing with Pat Loud (Diane Lane) the idea of a documentary series that would concern her family's day-to-day lives in Santa Barbara, CA.

Pat considers the proposal and accepts, amidst her son Lance (Thomas Dekker) moving to New York City.

Gilbert tells Pat of his suspicions surrounding Bill's trips away, giving fairly strong evidence that he is cheating on her.

The show airs to strong television ratings but much criticism of members of the family, in particular Pat for how she came off on camera and Lance for his homosexuality.